At the age of 26, former top show jumper Royal Charmer has passed away. Bred by Thomas A. Hughes in Kilkenny, the dark bay Irish gelding jumped to fame with Swiss rider Markus Fuchs. From 2002 to 2007 the successful couple recorded 37 wins and more than 100 top placements. Royal Charmer scored numerous ranking points and helped his rider to become number one in the world ranking twice; in July 2003 and in June 2007. Fast classes and jump-offs, derbies, Grand Prix, six bars - the leggy, agile horse with the star and the narrow blaze was versatile and won in all types of classes. "Charmer was always reliable, he had a great character and was a very valuable partner to me," recalls Markus Fuchs. "I am really sorry that he is no longer with us.

As a four-year-old Royal Charmer was ridden by Marion Hughes. Then the Swiss rider and horse dealer Max Hauri bought the promising horse with traditional Irish bloodlines (Cavalier Royale x Noble Trump x Diamonds Are Trumps x King of Diamond x Nordlys XX x Water Serpent XX). After gaining experience in the ring with Francis Connors during two seasons in Ireland the horse started its career under the Swiss flag. Hauri’s sons Thomas and Markus were also victorious in his saddle. And it was Markus Hauri who established his favourite horse in the big sport with top results, such as being double clear in the Nations Cup of CSIO Lisbon in 2001. 

The gentle giant brought joy to many people along his path and was fit until his last day. Sadly, his first ever colic, due to a strangulating lipoma, ended his life within hours. Since March 2009 Royal Charmer had enjoyed his well-earned pension as a leisure and family horse with Ruth Müller, a former employee of Markus Fuchs. “Charmer was healthy, happy and still looking great. His farewell came unexpectedly and quickly,” she said. "I miss him a lot and I am very sad, but also grateful that I've been able to accompany this wonderful boy on his way for more than a decade."