"It’s a little bittersweet, but he doesn't owe us anything,” said McLain Ward after announcing the retirement of his super-star HH Carlos Z following their win in the $50,000 International Jumper Speed Final in Washington last weekend. 

Together, Ward and HH Carlos Z have won countless of classes over the three last years, in Aachen, Spruce Meadows, New York, Wellington, Toronto, Rome and so the list goes on. Whether it's been a five-star Grand Prix, a World Cup or a speed class – you name it, Carlos has won it. "He's been an incredible horse, an incredible winner," said Ward as HH Carlos Z's career came to a close. 

Here we look back at the career of one of the most-winning horses on the circuit, as we wish him a happy retirement.

All photos © Jenny Abrahamsson.