Alex Granato’s 17-year-old gelding Carlchen W (Chacco-Blue x Continue) has been retired from the sport, the American rider announced in social media on Tuesday.

The two – who made their last international appearance together in 2023 – were part of the U.S. team that claimed bronze at the 2019 Pan-American Games in Lima (PER). The pair won the CSI5* MLSJ Grand Prix in Traverse City in 2021, and during their years together they recorded many victories on American venues such as Traverse City, Lexington, Johnstown, Upperville and Wellington. The two were also part of the U.S. team that placed second in the Longines FEI Jumping Nations Cup Final in Barcelona in 2018.

“Happy retirement Carl,” Granato wrote on Instagram. “I’ve avoided posting this because it becomes real. Carlchen W has been an irreplaceable part of my life and career. Thanks to Page and Sarah Tredennick, I got to start working with Carl as a 5 year old. Because of Carl’s talent, huge heart and so many special people along the way, he and I have got to spend the past 11 years reaching goals, chasing down dreams, and exceeding my expectations. Carl, you did everything I asked and more…3*, 4* and 5* International Grand Prix wins, double clears on Senior Nation Cup Teams for USA, 2 North American League World Cup Qualifier wins, jumping clear in Barcelona, Spain at Nation Cup Finals, Team bronze in Lima, Peru at the Pan American Games. Even though it will never seem like enough time in the show ring with you, it’s an honor to be able to retire you happy and healthy at our home in KY. Thank you everyone who has been involved in Carl’s career and success! But most importantly, THANK YOU CARL!!!!!!!”

At World of Showjumping, we wish Carlchen the happiest of retirements!