Marcus Ehning's success-partner Sandro Boy (Sandro x Grannus, bred by Rudolf Meyer) has passed away at the age of 31, the German rider announced on Monday. 

Ehning got the ride on Sandro Boy when the stallion was ten, and the two went on to win the FEI World Cup Final in Kuala Lumpur in 2006, and also recorded numerous international Grand Prix victories together. During their last international appearance in 2010, Ehning and Sandro Boy won the CSI4* Grand Prix in München, Germany, before the stallion retired from the sport in 2011. 

Parallel to his sport career, Sandro Boy left his mark as a popular breeding stallion. With the Sandro Boy-daughter Sabrina, Ehning enjoyed huge success as well. 

"Thank you, Sandro Boy," wrote Ehning on his official Instagram-account. "At the proud age of 31, out of which we were allowed to spend 21 unforgettable and successful years together with you, we let you go today. We and your buddy Max will miss you very much."

At World of Showjumping, our thoughts are with Marcus Ehning and everyone close to Sandro Boy.