Tragic Loss: British Showjumping Community Mourns the Death of Respected Horseman Chris Moyce

A Devastating Loss for British Showjumping

The British showjumping community is grieving the loss of a “greatly respected” Kent showjumper, Chris Moyce, who died after falling from his horse at Bury Farm Equestrian Centre in Buckinghamshire.

The incident occurred on April 4 in the warm-up area, and tragically, Moyce never regained consciousness. British Showjumping announced his death with “great sadness and regret” on Tuesday, April 15.

A Distinguished Career and Legacy

Moyce was renowned as a horseman in the truest and classical sense, distinguished by his quiet expertise, generosity of spirit, and exceptional feel for horses. His life, shaped by the rhythm of hooves and the changing English seasons, was spent in honest labour and noble sport. Based at Stablegate Farm in the Elham Valley, Kent, he began his career under the tutelage of Nicholas Smith, a stalwart of the international circuit.

Throughout his career, Moyce made significant contributions to the sport, including producing notable showjumpers such as Pjort, who achieved international success with Geoff Luckett while still under his ownership.

Tributes and Remembrance

Iain Graham, chief executive of British Showjumping, paid tribute to Moyce’s dedication to the sport: “Chris supported showjumping in many ways and was greatly respected by officials, staff and fellow competitors. He was always encouraging to those starting off in the sport and gave a lot of his time in helping British Showjumping activities in his area”.

Moyce leaves behind not only fine young horses and students who benefited from his teaching but also a standard of horsemanship, decency, and a legacy of walking through the world with honour and humility. He is survived by his partner Mark Bellinger, his family, and a wide circle of friends who will carry forward his memory with affection and pride.