2013 Bay Gelding, 16.2h FEI Competitor: Dunedin EDH (Artoo)

 

Discover an exceptional 2013 Bay Gelding, 16.2 hands, bred in Canada with Hannoverian bloodlines by Donnerbube out of an Escudo 1 mare. This striking, intelligent horse is a proven FEI competitor and a cherished partner, treated like a family pet, ready to excel with his next rider. Watch him in action on my YouTube channel: Equiniki Dressage Horses.

https://youtube.com/@equinikidressagehorses?si=9PxTCFytR_vRN78i

 

Training & Performance

This gelding shines at horses shows earning up to 68.9% at fourth level in his first show season. (2024) This year we have competed successfully at Prix st. Georges. He’s now schooling Intermediate 1 movements 4-5 days per week, including full pirouettes, two-time tempi changes, and developing half steps. With Olympian Courtney King’s guidance, he’s become a “change whiz,” mastering flying changes after dedicated training. His primary challenge is regaining adjustability in extensions after intensive collected or lateral work, an area for continued refinement. His show ring debut was impeccable in behavior, with any errors due to my own rustiness after a 14-year competition break, despite my successful junior career.

 

Health & Soundness

 In nearly three years of ownership, this horse has had zero soundness issues, as confirmed by my trusted veterinary team at Sunny Coast Vet, specialists in sports medicine and acupuncture. His pre-purchase exam by Dr. Jeff Williams (Rhinebeck Equine) was clean, with no X-rays recommended due to his robust health. In my first year of ownership, he tested positive for Lyme disease (showing heavy lateral work struggles) and EPM (showing excessive spookiness), both treated successfully. In December 2024, bloodwork showed a negative immune response for EPM but a positive result for Lyme, which was treated again. Routine bloodwork screens for both. An easy keeper with strong hooves, he requires only front shoes and no maintenance or joint injections.

 

Temperament & Behavior

Sensible, curious, and well-mannered, this gelding trailers confidently, stands like a gentleman for farrier, body-clipping, vet, and acupuncture (which he loves), and allows face-washing during baths. He picks up each foot on command and thrives in a consistent routine. Unfazed by farm activity—hay deliveries, trailers, or landscaping equipment—he’s not suited for fox hunting, which he found stressful in his past. I encourage his curiosity, allowing calm exploration of new stimuli, fostering a trusting partnership.

 

Background & Lifestyle

Purchased in October 2022 as a project, he’d been passed between sales and lived in a field, fox hunting twice weekly. I’ve guided him to FEI-level success, and he’s thrived. He’s adapted to turnout, from 24/7 in a herd with a pony mare to solitary in a smaller paddock. He eats 3/4 quart of Ultium twice daily, a Viacalm supplement (continued from purchase), and loves his hay. His routine includes watching the farm’s bustle from his paddock, keeping him content and engaged.

 

Ideal Home

This horse is a versatile FEI competitor for juniors, young riders, adult amateurs, or professionals aiming to advance in the dressage arena. His talent, work ethic, and kind nature make him a joy to ride and train. I’m selling to focus on other life priorities, confident he’s ready for a soft landing with a rider who will adore him as I do. Price: 75K.

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I’ve shared this detailed story to answer your questions upfront and ensure the perfect match. For inquiries, or to discuss pricing, please reach out. This horse deserves a rider as exceptional as he is, and I’m excited to help him find his next home.

 

Contact:

 Niki Vessio 914-483-9017 

Equiniki1@gmail.com