Farewell to Papillon Z: Jérôme Guery's former top horse passes away at 23

Belgian rider Jérôme Guery has announced the passing of his former top horse Papillon Z (Perhaps x San Patrignano Cassini) at the age of 23.

The Zangersheide gelding had a long and successful career at the highest level of the sport before retiring in the care of the Guery family.

With Guery in the saddle, Papillon Z claimed major victories, including the CSI5 Grand Prix in Lummen and Knokke* and the CSI4 Grand Prix in Mons* in 2015. The pair also enjoyed international success in Chantilly, Geneva, and Maastricht. Before joining Guery, Papillon Z had already competed at top level with Gregory Wathelet and Rik Hemeryck.

Later, the gelding helped launch the riding career of Guery’s son Mathieu, inspiring a passion for the sport in the next generation.

“He changed my life,” Guery wrote in an emotional tribute. “With him, I won my first 5* Grands Prix. He qualified for the Olympics in Rio. With him, I discovered the highest level of the sport and travelled the world. He made it possible for me to become one of the best riders in the world.”

Guery thanked Papillon’s owners, the Woitrin family, and all those who supported and cared for the gelding over the years. “You’ll always be in our hearts. We love you, Papillon…”

The team at World of Showjumping extended their condolences to the Guery family and all who loved Papillon Z.