Very sadly, McLain Ward’s 13-year-old gelding Imperial HBF (VDL Glasgow vh Merelsnest x Original VDL) has passed away.

“It is with great sadness that we share the loss of Imperial HBF (“Paddy”) yesterday due to complications from colic,” Ward shared on social media. “Paddy suffered a bout of colic and, despite two surgeries and every possible effort to save him, the incredibly difficult decision was made—by his owner Michael Smith, myself, and a devoted team of caretakers and veterinarians—that the kindest and most humane choice was to let him go. Paddy fought tirelessly, just as he did throughout his career as a competitor, and our entire family and team are devastated by his loss. During this challenging time, his owner, Mike Smith, exemplified true horsemanship—spending countless hands-on hours by Paddy’s side, doing everything possible to support his recovery, and never wavering in his trust in the team caring for him. The veterinarians and support staff at Rood & Riddle Wellington, along with Dr. Tim Ober, were nothing short of extraordinary. As always, I am deeply grateful to my own team for their unwavering dedication and compassion throughout this process. Godspeed, Imperial.”

Ward took over the reins of Imperial from Tim Gredley (GBR) in the spring of 2025. The two were part of the winning American team in the CSIO5* Intesa Sanpaolo Nations Cup in Rome last May as well as in the CSIO5* Mercedes-Benz Nations Cup at CHIO Aachen in July, and placed third in the CSIO5* Rolex Grand Prix of La Baule in June.

At World of Showjumping, our thoughts are with Team Ward and all those close to Paddy.