RIP Colonel John Russell

[Toblersmom]

I thought it might be of interest to at least a few people here that Colonel John Russel died a few days ago, at the ripe age of 100.

I never got the chance to meet him personally, but he was certainly a piece of American equestrian sport history, and a local fixture here in the San Antonio English riding scene. His family has asked that people wishing to express condolences do so through the Russell Equestrian Center’s Facebook, web page, phone, mailing address, etc. so that his widow is not overwhelmed on her personal communications.

https://www.chronofhorse.com/article/throwback-thursday-living-legend-col-john-russell

[RacetrackReject]

I never met him, but some clients of a trainer at his facility bought a horse from our barn. The trainer was less than happy about the whole deal initially because the client had gone out on their own to get a horse, which I can understand. The story the parent told us is that as the horse was being unloaded for trial, the trainer was just picking him apart like crazy when Col Russell walked over and started talking about what a lovely horse he was. The clients obviously bought the horse after trial, with the trainer and Col Russell’s blessing, and he did quite well for their child. If the colonel had not been there, the client may have missed out on what was truly a lovely horse for their child.

[BAC]

Its always sad to lose a legend like Colonel Russell but he had a good long life and what an amazing career. I couldn’t help laughing at his comment that “the horse has eyes” LOL!

Rip Colonel Russell.