This is so sad! Teddy was one in a million!

He definitely was the little horse with the big heart and mighty engine. He will be missed.

He was such a very talented pony with a huge personality.

I had the pleasure of watching Teddy at the 2007 Rolex.

RIP Teddy

I'm glad Teddy had folks like Karen and David who would do the right thing by him and not let him suffer. We'll miss him!

He was my favorite to watch. He may have been small but his heart and determination was 18 hands!

Teddy was such a great ambassador for our sport.  He also showed what determination and belief in the seemingly impossible can do.

My thoughts prayers and best wishes to Max Karen and the whole O'connor barn.

Tedyy was amazing. He'll be so missed. He was so amazingly talented, words cannot describe the things he was able to achieve. He'll be missed more than I can say. Teddy, the world mourns for you, but we will never forget you.

He may be little but im glad i got to see him. He was awsome but little and COOL. He will be severly missed.

I followed Teddy's career, and cheered him on!  I will miss this mighty pony!  Godspeed, Theodore O'Connor...  Please give our best to Karen and David.

I was so looking forward to seeing Teddy win a medal in Beijing, this is so upsetting for all of us who admired this amazing little horse from afar, i can't even begin to imagine how devastated the team around him must be.

Teddy, you were one in a billion. You will be very very sadly missed.

r.i.p.

You're in our prayers and thoughts today -- and for many days to come. Godspeed, Teddy!

I am so saddened by the death of this amazing pony. Thank you O'Connors for having the strength to do the right thing for Teddy. Gretchen Jackson so eloquently stated that "grief is the price we pay for love". All of us who loved Teddy from afar and especially those fortunate enough to be associated with him are grieving today.

Regardless of a horse's talent or winnings,loosing a horse is like loosing a family member, because that is who they are to those of us who love our horses. I too have lost a horse to a tragic barn accident and I still grieve his loss months later.  I can sympathize with you, my prayers are with you.

I am so thankful I got to see this amazing pony at Rolex this year. He was truly one in a million. I gave my eventing pony a big hug from Teddy today.

My best wishes to the whole O'Connor team.

RIP Theodorable.

Thanks to the O'Connors for doing the right thing for that dear pony. I so enjoyed watching him compete... he was thrilling. Such a big heart.

I know he will be missed by his people. RIP Teddy.

Thanks for being such a wonderful inspiration for all the little guys, Teddy. We'll miss you and the way you made the crowds cheer. God bless the O'Connors.

He was truly an incredible and talented fellow - he sure inspired so many young riders (and Iam positive he made his team mates and competitors blush with inadequacy) and will sure be rembered out there in the feild where the rest will strive to be as great as he.

RIP Teddy

I have watched Teddy annihilate "big" horses at the past two Rolex competitions & was looking forward to seeing him do it again next year.  When I think of the attachment that I feel towards Teddy having seen him for less than an hour in the past two years, I can only imagine the pain the O'Connors are suffering now.  My heart goes out to all of their team.

This is very sad!  A super talented competitor, a great teammate, an ambassador for a fabulous sport in trouble!  Devastating.  

Running with the angels, that is the only way to think of things that are so sad. There is no way to have been involved with horses for several years without knowing the sadness that is part of the loving.  Blessings to the O'Conner team.  We count on you to lead the way doing the right thing. Thanks for bringing along such a star.

I was fortunate enough to have known Teddy since before he was backed. He stole my heart years before he became a superstar. I will miss him.

I am so sad. My daughters and I went to Rolex this year to watch Teddy and cheer him on. We are so heartbroken. He will be so missed!

I will always miss teddy owning the events.that pony had the biggest heart. rest in peace teddy. we will miss you.

David & Karen,

  I cry with you over this horrible accident! You have wonderful memories to help you through! He has crossed over the Rainbow Bridge!

This is such shocking and sad news, especially so soon after the Jersey Fresh where Tig went down. I was a volunteer there, and it was sad that day too. I agree with the others who say that Teddy is an ambassador for all the "little guys" out there who are often overlooked, simply because of their smaller size. I'm glad that under their knowledgeable hands he got the chance to be a star. All who knew him, and knew of him will surely miss the little guy, lost in his prime. The O'Connors are suffering so much this month. My heart goes out to them.

My thoughts & prayers go out to the O'Connors. What a beautiful and spirited horse... cherish the memories Teddy has left behind.

I'm so shocked and saddened by this news. I'm so very sorry for all the people who cared for and loved this boy.

I do feel glad that I got to see him in action at Rolex this year, and was sure to give my own horse extra scritches today, and remember to cherish all my moments with him.

It's impossible to say the right words when something like this happens.  My heart goes out to all involved with Teddy.  I am so glad to have seen him go at Rolex.  He was truly something special.

He was the Seabiscuit of eventing

I only saw Teddy once I Rolex, but I will never forget him. God bless you Teddy we will all miss you! RIP

Teddy was THE horse that turned my head and made me fall in love with eventing.  Surely, a spectacular heart carried that little body over those huge fences. What an inspiration he was.  I have tremendous respect for the O'Connors to face such a horrible decision with such grace and compassion for Teddy.  My thoughts and prayers are with them.

i am i shock right now..i watched him sail over the fences at rolex without a scratch ,,,and then this freak thing!!it makes one realize how fragile life really is...i will pray for teddy and the o.connors/

I learned about the fabulous pony Teddy while reading an article about him in the Washington Post (Kids Post  Section). What a Sad turn of events. My thoughts are with dear Teddy and his people who loved him.

Oh my gosh. Such an awful thing to happen. I'm sure Karen is devastated. Everyone loved that pony, he was incredible. Rest In Peace, Teddy, we all loved you.

He was little, but now he's dead.  Don't let it happen to you.

I have attended Rolex KY 29 of the 30 years and  I will alwys remember that "Teddy" was the crowd's favorite each year that he competed. The fans were absolutely thrilled to see him compete and the clapping by all was practically deafening. He certainly will be missed by all. He was an absolutely beautiful horse and his jumping form was perfect. What a shining star.

I'm am so sorry. I have my own 14.2hh locomotive.  She has to fight the odds to rise in the sport just as Teddy did.  Every time i see or ride her, i will remember Teddy.  I was able to watch him this and last yesar on TV, in the Rolex and on Karen's Inside Eventing show when Teddy was just beginning.  I would be devastated if my little POA filly ever had to be uthanized.  My thanks go out to the O'connors and Max for allowing us to watch Teddy in his Prime.  RIP Teddy.

Kisses and Hugs from

Jessie and Sugar

What a sad day for the sport ..Teddy was a real champion ..He'll be missed.

Karen and David, my heart goes out to you.  Teddy was one in a million and will be greatly missed and always remembered.  Got to see him shine at Rolex this year...restored my hope in ponies. Godspeed, Teddy, tail to the wind.

Thoughts are with all involved with Teddy.  It was our honour to have seen him at Rolex these past 2 years, truly a bionic pony.  

I had the opportunity to see you go at Fair Hill. You won my heart. Extra treats and kisses for my boy today in your honor. Godspeed, Theodorable and prayers to the O'Connor team.

Thoughts are with all involved with Teddy.  It was our honour to have seen him at Rolex these past 2 years, truly a bionic pony.  

We will miss you Teddy.   Your talent and spirit was an inspiration to my daughter who events a "little" guy too and Karen and Teddy were the only ones she watched.  

The decision to euthanize is difficult but correct.   I'm sorry we didn't ever get out to see him at Rolex.  

Rest in Peace Teddy and my prayers to the O'Connors.

Theodore O'Connor will forever be in the hearts of horse lovers everywhere. Never have I seen such a brave, talented little pony. The entire eventing community is truly devastated by the loss of this incredible talent.

RIP Bionic Pony.

You will forever be in our hearts.

Such a devestating loss.  

My condolonces to the O'Connors and everyone that loved Teddy.  

He was an incredible pony that captured the hearts of so many.

Godspeed to the little man with a big heart.

It's so hard to find the words. Dear Teddy brought so much to so many.

Rest in Peace brave little one, you gave us so much joy to see you soar.

Teddy was such a treasure and blessing to the eventing world.  So many people loved him, including me.  I know how devastated the O'Connors and everyone close to him must be.  My heart goes out to them.

Thank You Teddy, your memory will continue to serve as an inspiration to American Pony Breeders, Owners, Riders and Enthusiasts alike. Sincere condolences to his family and friends during this saddest of times. You will be remembered as an American Hero.

Fragile Circle

"We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own, live within a fragile circle, easily and often breached.

Unable to accept its awful gaps, we still would live no other way.

We cherish memory as the only certain immortality,

never fully understanding the necessary plan."

Irving Townsend.

So very sorry for your loss.

I would like to ask all of those whose lives were touched by this miraculous pony, and devastated beyond words, to honor him by wearing a plain white T-Shirt, with the words FOREVER TEDDY, written in black on the shirt, at any upcoming horse trials/horse shows. Waradaca is this coming weekend, followed by Rubicon. All places were Teddy has trodden. He was part of OUR team, and he must be honored.

So, Please......FOREVER TEDDY!!!

This poem was written on a napkin by a 19 year old pilot during WWII. He mailed it to his parents and shortly thereafter died in a plane crash. His was also a life cut short, too, too short. It is for Teddy.

High Flight

Oh! I have slipped the surly bonds of earth

And danced the skies on laughter-silvered wings;

Sunward I've climbed, and joined the tumbling mirth

Of sun-split clouds - and done a hundred things

You have not dreamed of - wheeled and soared and swung

High in the sunlit silence. Hov'ring there

I've chased the shouting wind along, and flung

My eager craft through footless halls of air.

Up, up the long delirious, burning blue,

I've topped the windswept heights with easy grace

Where never lark, or even eagle flew -

And, while with silent lifting mind I've trod

The high untresspassed sanctity of space,

Put out my hand and touched the face of God.

Pilot Officer Gillespie Magee

No 412 squadron, RCAF

Killed 11 December 1941

Edit/Delete Message

Teddy was such an amazing pony. There was nothing like seeing him from the stands looking at those 17.2 horses as if they were his size. No pony will ever be able to fill his giant shoes. I hope you have fun going across the rainbow bridge with le samarai, frodo, and the quiet man. RIP Teddy.

It is so sad to lose such a talented animal. It must be so hard for the O'Connors. I have watched as Teddy has competed at Rolex and various other events...glad to see a pony do so well admist all the huge ones. It has made me realize that size doesn't really matter that much. An inspiration to everyone.

My condolences to the O'Connors

I live next door to where Teddy trained in VA. This hits home since many of my neighbors here knew Teddy personally and loved him.  This is such a tragic accident, and at a time when things have been so tough for eventing as a sport.  Just a couple of weeks ago the O'Connors lost Tigger Too, making this even more difficult.

My condolences and prayers with everyone who knew and loved this great pony.

My prayers and thoughts go out to all  of Teddy's family. He was so talented and this is truly a sad day for the equestrian world. RIP Teddy.

Teddy was an inspiration to anyone that saw jump.  I was at Rolex 2008 and saw him at The Head of the Lake.  He was brilliant.  He was and is an Eventing Legend.  RIP TEDDY!

I am so very sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with Karen and David and everyone else close to Teddy.  I so enjoyed watching him. What a heart!

Fly with the wind, dear Teddy.  Fly, brave pony, fly.

I'm so very sorry for this terrible loss. My heart goes out to you.

"Somewhere in time's own space

There must be some sweet pastured place

Where creeks sing on and tall trees grow

Some paradise where horses go.

For by the love that guides my pen

I know great horses live again."

-Stanley Harrison

Teddy was so incredibly special, he might have been small in stature, but he had the heart and determination of a thousand large horses.

I have admired the O'Connor's for so many years, they are the pillars of a sport setting the standard and their students are following in their footsteps. I don't believe you can ask for better people.

Rest in Peace, Teddy. You were loved by millions.

We looked up to you Teddy - you are our hero! Our mom is very sad for your mom and dad... see you some day! Gallop in Peace!!!

I have had the pleasure of watching Teddy at Rolex for the past two years.  He was amazing.  He inspired so many people.  My heart goes out to Wynn and Karen and everyone else who knew Teddy.  I can't even imagine what you must be feeling.  RIP Teddy, you will be missed.

So very sorry for the loss of such such a great horse.

I was at a loss for words upon hearing the devastating news.

I have been following Teddy with great anticipation, I have always loved ponies and have gotten to work with them often. Their mind is like no other.

Teddy was and will always remain my favorite eventer. He has inspired and motivated me to move upwards and onwards in this sport that I love.

Rest in peace dear pony, Godspeed and I wish God's Blessings to the O'Conners in this sad time.

It's always devastating to lose a horse, especially a horse with as big a heart as Teddy. He was one amazing pony, one in a million. Godspeed Teddy and Good-bye.

I felt like my heart was ripped out when I saw this today.  Such a terribly sad day in eventing and truly a great loss to everyone.  It was such a pleasure watching Team O'Conner and Teddy work together to master the impossible and make it look so easy and fun.  Run free, jump high, little man.  Even though you were small, you had a heart bigger than any horse!  We'll miss you....

My heart breaks as I am sure yours does also over Teddy's passing.  I was rooting for him to get a chance to put more smiles on the crowd at the Olympics. Hopefully the angels let him take his leap of faith instead of walking over the rainbow bridge.  Condolences to Team Teddy.    

    R.I.P

Theodore O'Connor

My heart goes out to everyone that knew this amazing horse. May god continue to watch over him. I know, as well as everyone else... he will be jumping like CRAZY up in heaven! haha... we all need to remember what an amazing horse he was. Thank god for giving us all a chance to see him and see how amazing he was. God Bless David & Karen O'Connor, may we send out thoughts and prayers out to them in this hard time...

Bridgette

This guy was surely remarkable. This news hits us all so hard. I can't believe the pain his owners and caretakers are feeling. He will surely be known as "Super Pony!" Rest in peace my dear Teddy.

I am so sorry for your loss. I have also had to put a friend down and know your loss.  I grieve with all of you tonight.  I did not know of this great little pony until I read about Rolex this year and then saw the pictures on the internet.  This little pony grabbed my heart with his courage and heart. May you rest in peace tonight and forever. You will not be forgotten.

An incredible heart, an incredible talent, an incredible inspiration. Teddy was a superstar, with a light that spread far beyond the boundaries of eventing. He will be deeply and sorrowfully missed.

Godspeed Teddy O'Connor.

RIP teddy. He achieved so much, and he was always a joy to watch. My thoughts are with the Oconners and his connections xxx

This great pony was such an inspiration to all those who are small of stature but big of heart. My sincerest condolences to Teddy's nearest and dearest.

Theodore O'Connor has been my perpetual inspiration ever since I read an article about him in Practical Horsemen.  A few years ago in a moment of weakness I adopted a unbroken 10yo 14.2 former Premarin broodmare a day or two away from slaughter.  There have been many, many highs and many many lows in our relationship:  many bruises & tears and many preliminary plans to "live out her life in a farm upstate".  Fast forward a few years, we won our very first Horse Trials recently and there isn't a day in the saddle that goes by that I don't think of Theodore O'Connor and tell myself, "if that little mixed breed pony can do it, than so can we!"  Thank you Theodore O'Connor, for the memories.  You will always be in my thoughts and in my heart with every jump my mare and I set our sights on.

We had the pleasure of watching Karen and Teddy at Rolex and are truly saddened to hear of his accident.  We offer our condolences to everyone at the O'Connor event team.  Teddy was truly one of a kind and an inspiration to us all.

My 14-year-old daughter got to see Teddy and meet Karen in Florida last year and came home full of wonderful things to say about him and Karen.  I am so sorry for your loss; it's a great loss to the entire world's equestrian community.  Team O'Connor is in my thoughts and prayers as Teddy buddies up at the Rainbow Bridge with Barbaro and Eight Belles and all the wonderful horses loved and lost, whose memories we treasure.

Teddy was truly a wonder horse, a once in a lifetime horse, and he will be greatly missed.  My sincerest sympathies to all......

Teddy was an inspiration for all of us who ride "little" horses. He showed the world that a little body often contains a great big heart. Vaya Con Dios, Teddy O'

Thank you.... it has been a wonderful experience.

Poor Teddy! Had a heart of gold. He was such a good pony! Karen must be soo greatful to have had him! Teddy was loved by tons of people and im sure he knows that.

He will be greatly missed by all

This is just heartbreaking. Teddy was a special little horse. Im my expereience the little ones often have the biggest hearts. Prayers to Teddy's connections.

What a wonderful, talented,and beautiful pony that took the best of his Shetland, Arabian, and TB breeding & showed the world just what a little guy could do!!!Theodore O'Connor, GOD BLESS YOU as you run with the best in HORSEY/PONY heaven!!! You will be sorely missed by the WQRLD and by all who watched your triumphs.

Im So sorry for your Loss, You have had a terrible year and My heart goes out to you. I enjoyed photographing  Teddy in Florida this past season.  I will remember him as a vailiant underdog ,The little guy that could.  ~ God Bless.

I had the pleasure and honor of watching Teddy at this year's Rolex.  He was amazing and definitely the crowd favorite!  To David and Karen and the rest of Teddy's family, my thoughts and prayers go out to you. I understand the sadness you all are feeling.  Know you did the right thing and wish him well as he walks through Heaven's gate.  

He was the "little engine that could"; even when no one could ask for more, he gave.  What a blessing to have lived--now an angel to watch over the lives of Karen & David and their heed.  Our prayers and sympathy --

I was so sorry to hear about Teddy the little horse with the heart of a giant, he will be missed by all in the horse world. My thoughts go to the O'Connors in their sorrow and they should know their little guy was loved and admired by so many.

Dear Karen and David: Teddy is our hometown hero; Karen, you and Teddy have brought such joy. He will always live on in our hearts. Thank you for caring for Teddy with so much love.

******************

When the Time Comes

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,

And pain should keep me from my sleep,

Then will you do what must be done,

For this -- the last battle -- can’t be won.

You will be sad I understand,

But don’t let grief then stay your hand.

For this day, more than the rest,

Your love and friendship must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years,

You wouldn’t want me to suffer so.

When the time comes, please, let me go.

Take me to where my needs they’ll tend,

Only, stay with me until the end

And hold me firm and speak to me

Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you will agree

It is a kindness you do for me.

Although my tail it’s last has waved,

From my suffering I have been saved.

Do not grieve that it must be you

Who has to decide this thing to do;

We’ve been so close – we two – all these years,

Let not your heart hold any tears.

by Julia Napier, 1999

My heart goes out to Karen and David.  What a terrible tragedy to lose such a good friend. I'm so glad I got to see him at Rolex this year.  Now he is playing, pain free, in God's garden.

I am heartbroken. Teddy's loss is a huge loss for the entire horse community. He was such an inspiration, expecially to myself and my 14.2 hand hunter/ jumper mare. The little ones have the largest hearts. Deepest Condolances to Karen, David, Max and everyone else who knew and loved that INCERDIBLE pony. He will be missed, yet his legend will FOREVER live on!

An inspiration to all horse lovers and a beacon to everyone who reveled in his glow.  Truly a wonder horse who could do it all and show that a 14.1 horse can still compete with the big guys and win.  His legend will carry on for him and others to follow.

My horses range in size from 14.3 to 15.1 so I've been a major fan of Teddy's and of Karen for having the courage to prove that great things do come in smaller packages.  My heart is broken to see such a wonderful horse lose his life far too early.

I am going to hug my horse a little bit longer and a little bit harder tonight.  RIP Teddy.  I am so sad for your loss.

I grew up riding ponies, so they always have had such a special place in my heart. So to see a pony like Teddy go to sucha high level of competing, it brought back such memories, and enthusiasm for the little guys! So sorry about the loss of such a wonderful pony!

Originally written in 2004 for a dearly departed equine friend...and now dedicated to amazing Teddy O'Connor.

Weep no more for me, my friends,

No longer should you mourn;

For every horse who leaves this life,

Quickly is reborn.

Our broken bodies are left behind,

The pain and suffering, too;

An angel leads us to His hands,

Where He makes us strong and new.

At Heaven’s Gate He turns us loose,

And we streak across the sky;

We prance among the shining stars,

And jump clouds a mile high.

Some of us will chase the wind,

And gallop through the stormy fray;

The roar of thunder in each hoof,

The clap of lightning in our neigh!

We speed along the ocean’s plain,

Leaping with the rolling waves;

Necks arching as the breakers curl,

Sea-foam ribboned through our manes.

Over endless desert sands we chase,

Our new lives just begun;

Never slowing, always striding,

For a horse was made to run!

The setting sun casts rosy light

Throughout Heaven’s vast domain;

Blowing soft we pause to rest,

For with dawn we race again!

So when you hear the thunder rumble,

Or watch waves break upon the sea;

Say a prayer for the horse,

Whose Spirit finally is set free!

Theodore O'Connor, you are my mentor.  You will continue to be my hero, I'll strive to be just like you, I will jump high and hope to have half the heart that you had.  GodSpeed Teddy, everyone in the barn will miss you.

Our thoughts go out to everyone who had the privilege to work with Teddy. Large hearts come in small packages sometimes and we can learn alot from them, like how very precious our time on earth really is.

Our deepest condolences for Karen and David he may be gone now but he will always live stong in our hearts. And  reamber big things come in small packages

Written by Neil Young, meant for all those we lose....Long may you run, long may you run.  Although these changes have come, with your chrome (chestnut:) heart shining, long may you run...  Tail to the wind, Teddy.

My heart goes out to the O'Connor's. Teddy will be greatly missed.

We have not stopped crying yet!! We had the pleasure of meeting Karen & Teddy at the Rolex. What a true thrill to see them together on the course. He was an amazing creature that just proves good things come in small packages. I can't imagine how the Rolex will be next year without him. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the members of Team O'Connor. He will be missed so very much.

This little guy was so inspiring and he has touched the hearts of so many people. He truly was "the little engine that could" and I'm so sorry for the Oconnor's loss. I was hoping to watch Teddy clean up at the Beijing Olympics!

A complete outsider to the world of jumping and eventing, I find myself weeping over a horse I only just heard of today.  I decided to watch his performance videos on You-Tube.  The sheer excellence of Teddy brought the first tears.  "The achieve of, the mastery of the thing!" wrote Gerard Manley Hopkins, marveling at a falcon's flight.  The same can be said of Teddy:  "Brute beauty and valour and act, oh, air, pride, plume, here Buckle! AND the fire that breaks from thee then, a billion Times told lovelier, more dangerous, O my chevalier!"

Now that I understand what--no, WHO--has consistently left observers so awed by his apparently effortless performance, I weep over the loss of such a well-loved and deserving equine hero.

Please accept my deepest sympathy--all you who will feel his loss most keenly.  God bless you and comfort your hearts.  

Dear Karen and David as you can see you do not grieve alone. Our eyes are red. What a devastating loss. And what an amazing hero he was. We will all miss him.

I had the pleasure of seeing Teddy up close and personal as a crossing guard at The Hollow during Rolex 2007 and 2008.  He was fun to watch and I will miss him very much!!  My deepest sympathies to all.

Wow.  I saw this little ball of awesome at Rolex in '07.  He was such an inspiration.  If there ever was an equine version of the "Little Engine That Could", Teddy was it.  My heart goes out to the O'Connors and everyone whose life this super-pony touched.

Please accept my heartfelt condolences at the loss of precious Teddy. He was an extraordinary athlete, and, I'm sure, a marvelous friend. Please know that our hearts are breaking right along with all of yours. He will be missed so very much.

Though I never saw him in person I loved reading of his successes and marvelling at what a pony can achieve in a sport dominated by large horses. My thoughts are with the O'Conners during this sad time. Teddy RIP

I'm crying and I didn't have the pleasure of knowing this little guy! I think I saw his on Inside Eventing on RFDTV. God Bless...

What a tragedy - so much potential and talent.  My thoughts and prayers are with the O'Conner's.  

He is now soaring through the heavens and is in Paradise.  My heart goes out to those who love/d him.  

We compared him to the late and great PHARLAP....a true champion(little by nature big by stature) A big hearted pony who gave his all....he will be sadly missed all round the world!!!! My heart goes out to David and Karen.

What a terrible loss on so many levels and a sad ending to a life well lived and too short.

My deepest condolences to the O'Connors as well as great respect for making this loving and compassionate decision.

Teddy won the hearts of all who ever saw him. I watched him at his two Rolex appearances and you knew he was the "People's Pony" - as it was said in another article. He was not only Horse of the Year in 2007, but he brough so much to the entire horse and eventing arena, that his passing is a devastating loss for so many.  I can only imagine how those - such as the O'Connor Team - who knew him well are feeling.  My heart goes out to you.  Teddy will have a permanent place in the eventing world and be remembered forever in the horse world. I am thankful that he did not have to suffer and that the O'Connors made a very difficult, but correct choice to end his pain and suffering.

Karen & David:

I am so sorry.  Teddy: You were the best and your spirit remains with all who knew you.  

I had the priviledge of watching both of you at 2007 and 2008 Rolex. What a thrill you gave us all.  We couldn't cheer you on enough.

Teddy:  I hope we'll meet when I cross the Rainbow Bridge.  

My deepest regret for Team Teddy's loss... a profound loss that will take years to dry the eyes.  Sweet memories of mighty Teddy we will always cherish... gallop with love to God's pastures, and when you get there give Hap a big nuzzle from her still very sad human.  

Teddy, your spirit and enthusiam for the job will never be forgotten.

"Defy gravity----Defy the odds"

"Forever Teddy"

Man, just so sad. I loved this spunky little guy that could keep up with the big "guys". RIP Teddy.

After losing John Henry last fall and now Teddy, this is almost more than I can take. I think the story of Teddy and Karen, and the whole Theodore O'Connor team should be written in a book and made into a movie.

RIP Teddy, "the litttle pony who could"

This is insane...this horse did so much for the horse industry...he opened alot of peoples eyes...he will be greatly missed...and my regards go out to the O'Conner family...i am so sorry

Losing a beloved horse is tragic, whether an Uber pony or a backyard pony. Teddy was a brave little giant who will be long remembered for his "can do" spirit. He and the O'Connors made each other's dreams come true. The light is a bit dimmer in the world today, but the heavens will shine brightly. Thanks Teddy, for everything you brought to the sport!

You are a great champion. When you ran, the ground shook, the sky opened and mere mortals parted. Parted the way to victory. Where you'll  meet me in the winner's circle, and I'll put a blanket of flowers on your back. ~Dreamer~

Beloved and missed by all!!

So terribly sorry to hear about the loss of this incredible horse.  I have been through a similar situation; my heart goes out to all involved.      

A very tragic accident, so sorry for the loss of such an extraordinary pony!

Our sincere sympathies from Golden's Pony Farm

"Some horses come into our lives and quickly go.

Other stay, make hoof prints on our hearts, and we are never, ever the same"

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the O'Connors and their team. Teddy was truely an amazing horse, and his memory will live on in  the hearts of his fans everywhere!

I great little horse, with a heart the size of the Grand Canyon.  My prayers are with you.

Dear Teddy - You do not lie broken now - I know you approached the 'Rainbow Bridge' - Soared over it and are even now enjoying life in God's Heaven, awaiting all your friends and fans.  God Bless you Karen, Dave, and all.

I never met Teddy but was so sad by this news. I remember reading an article about Teddy and hearing that Karen called him "Theodorable" - he really was. So sorry.

Where to Bury a Horse

If you bury him in this spot,

the secret of which you must already have,

he will come to you when you call;

come to you over the far, dim pastures of death.

And though you ride other living horses through life,

they shall not shy at him, nor resent his coming.

For he is yours, and he belongs there.

People may scoff at you,

who see no lightest blade of grass bent by his footfall,

who hear no nicker pitched too fine for insensitive ears.

People who may never really love a horse.

Smile at them then, for you shall know something that is hidden from them

and which is well worth the knowing...

The one place to bury a horse is in the heart of his master.

Inspired by a poem by Ben Hur Lampman, Portland Oregonian, 1921

Teddy was such a brave and big hearted guy! I will miss him =(

Teddie epitomized the phrase "It is not the size of the dog in the fight....rather the size of the fight in the dog!"  He was kind of a hero for our farm UCF Stables in Georgia.  UCF represents "unconventional farm" in which we do not have so called normal breeds that event.  We were blessed with the times we got to see the Super Pony in action.  He will live on in our memories as we ourselves continue to support the careers of our own Teddies that fill our farm.  

Thank you Karen & Teddie for your inspiration.  

God bless  

We want to thank you all so much for the encouragement shown through your heartfelt emails and postings about our beloved Teddy.  We are so overwhelmed by the response of love and sympathy that the global equine community has displayed, and truly appreciate knowing such kindness in all of your words.  Teddy was one of a kind.  He was our bright light and Karen's best friend.  It was such an honor to have been his rider and caregivers.  We are really struggling at this difficult time, and reading your thoughts has helped so much, We just wanted to let you all know that, and to thank you!

Karen, David, Max and the entire O'Connor Event Team

What a devastating tragedy to have happen to such a great horse. It is terrible to lose any pet but even more so when it is that one in a lifetime find. I wish you all the best and know there are many holding all of you in our thoughts.

I am so sorry to hear of your loss.  What a cool horse!  He will be missed.

“Of such as he was, there be few on earth;

Of such as he is, there are few in Heaven:

And life is all the sweeter that he lived,

And all he loved more sacred for his sake:

And Death is all the brighter that he died,

And Heaven is all the happier that he's there.”

May you run free knowing all those who loved you will forever hold you in their hearts.

Teddy was a very special guy. When Karen first got him, she was in the same division as I was on my 16hh horse. Imagine standing there, looking down on Karens head with her on this fiesty chestnut pony. She said to me then...He will be at Rolex...and he was. So sorry for everyone connected to him. He was a very special guy- thank you for sharing him with us.

I've never met Teddy, but have been hearing about him for years. It always hurts to hear they are gone.

Rainbow Bridge

There is a bridge connecting heaven and earth.  It is called the rainbow bridge because of its many colors.  Just this side of the rainbow bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.

Whenever a beloved pet dies, that pet goes to the rainbow bridge.  There is always food and water and warm spring weather so all our special friends can run and play together.  All the animals who had become ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who are hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.

There is only one thing missing.  They are not with their special person who loved them on earth and who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops playing and looks up.  The nose twitches, the ears come up, the bright eyes are intent, the body  quivers.  Then this one suddenly runs from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

YOU have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again.  The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands caress the beloved head and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your friend, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together...never again to be separated.

Tears came to my eyes as I read about Teddy's accident. I've always been a tremendous fan of his, even though horses like him aren't really common in my part of the world. He was proof that there were no limits--only the sky. Rest easy fella, you were one of a kind!

DEAR TEDDY, MAY YOU RUN AS FREE AS THE ANGELS, ON ALL OF GODS GREEN PASTURES IN HEAVEN, BECAUSE YOU ARE CERTAINLY THERE, WITH NO PAIN. YOUR HEART, PASSION AND LOVE WAS SO MUCH BIGGER THAN YOUR BODY. YOU WILL BE MISSED SO MUCH. PRAYERS TO THE O'CONNERS FOR THEIR LOSS.  WE THANK YOU FOR NOT LETTING TEDDY SUFFER.      

God gives us horses and compels some of us to love them. Yet why does the horse, an animal with such a big heart, live such a short life?

Perhaps it's because if our horses lived any longer, we wouldn't be able to bear losing them. Or,perhaps it's because God wants to jump.

Perhaps God looks down on the fine horses we raise and

decides when it's

His turn to ride. He gives us a few good years to care

for and learn from

them, but when the time is right, it's up to us to see

them off

gracefully.

OK, perhaps not gracefully. Blowing into a Kleenex is

rarely graceful. But

we can be grateful.

To have a horse in your life is a gift. In the matter

of a few short

years, a horse can teach a girl courage, if she

chooses to grab mane and

hang on for dear life. Even the smallest of ponies is

mightier than the

tallest of girls. To conquer the fear of falling off,

having one's toes

crushed, or being publicly humiliated at a horse show

is an admirable feat

for any child. For that, we can be grateful.

Horses teach us responsibility. Unlike a bicycle - or

a computer - a horse

needs regular care and most of it requires that you

get dirty and smelly

and up off the couch. Choosing to leave your cozy

kitchen to break the

crust of ice off the water buckets is to choose

responsibility. When our

horses dip their noses and drink heartily, we know

we've made the right

choice.

Learning to care for a horse is both an art and a

science. Some are easy

keepers, requiring little more than regular turn-out,

a flake of hay, and

a trough of clean water. Others will test you - you'll

struggle to keep

them from being too fat or too thin. You'll have their

feet shod regularly

only to find shoes gone missing. Some are so

accident-prone you'll swear

they're intentionally finding new ways to injure

themselves.

If you weren't raised with horses, you can't know that

they have unique

personalities. You'd expect this from dogs, but

horses? Indeed, there are

clever horses, grumpy horses, and even horses with a

sense of humor. Those

prone to humor will test you by finding new ways to

escape from the barn

when you least expect it. I found one of ours on the

front porch one

morning, eating the cornstalks I'd carefully arranged

as Halloween

decorations.

Horses can be timid or brave, lazy or athletic,

obstinate or willing. You

will hit it off with some horses and others will elude

you altogether.

There are as many "types" of horses as there are

people - which makes the

whole partnership thing all the more interesting.

If you've never ridden a horse, you probably assume

it's a simple thing

you can learn in a weekend. You can, in fact, learn

the basics on a Sunday

- but to truly ride well takes a lifetime. Working

with a living being is

far more complex than turning a key in the ignition

and putting the car in

"drive."

In addition to listening to your instructor, your

horse will have a few

things to say to you as well. On a good day, he'll be

happy to go along

with the program and tolerate your mistakes; on a bad

day, you'll swear

he's trying to kill you. Perhaps he's naughty or

perhaps he's fed up with

how slowly you're learning his language. Regardless,

the horse will have

an opinion. He may choose to challenge you (which can

ultimately make you

a better rider) or he may carefully carry you over

fences...if it suits

him. It all depends on the partnership - and

partnership is what it's all

about.

If you face your fears, swallow your pride, and are

willing to work at it,

you'll learn lessons in courage, commitment, and

compassion, in addition

to basic survival skills. You'll discover just how

hard you're willing to

work toward a goal, how little you know, and how much

you have to learn.

And, while some people think the horse "does all the

work", you'll be

challenged physically as well as mentally. Your horse

may humble you

completely. Or, you may find that sitting on his back

is the closest

you'll get to heaven.

You can choose to intimidate your horse, but do you

really want to? The

results may come more quickly, but will your work ever

be as graceful as

that gained through trust? The best partners choose to

listen, as well as

to tell. When it works, we experience a sweet sense of

accomplishment

brought about by smarts, hard work, and mutual

understanding between horse

and rider. These are the days when you know with

absolute certainty that

your horse is enjoying his work.

If we make it to adulthood with horses still in our

lives, most of us have

to squeeze riding into our over saturated schedules;

balancing our need

for things equine with those of our households and

employers. There is

never enough time to ride, or to ride as well as we'd

like. Hours in the

barn are stolen pleasures.

If it is in your blood to love horses, you share your

life with them. Our

horses know our secrets; we braid our tears into their

manes and whisper

our hopes into their ears. A barn is a sanctuary in an

unsettled world, a

sheltered place where life's true priorities are

clear: a warm place to

sleep, someone who loves us, and the luxury of regular

meals...Some of us

need these reminders.

When you step back, it's not just about horses - its

about love, life, and

learning. On any given day, a friend is celebrating

the birth of a foal, a

blue ribbon, or recovery from an illness. That same

day, there is also

loss: a broken limb, a case of colic, or a decision to

sustain a life or

end it gently. As horse people, we share the

accelerated life cycle of

horses: the hurried rush of life, love, loss, and

death that caring for

these animals brings us. When our partners pass, it is

more than a moment

of sorrow.

We mark our loss with words of gratitude for the ways

our lives have been

blessed. Our memories are of joy, awe, and wonder.

Absolute union. We

honor our horses for their brave hearts, courage, and

willingness to give.

To those outside our circle, it must seem strange. To

see us in our muddy

boots, who would guess such poetry lives in our

hearts? We celebrate our

companions with praise worthy of heroes. Indeed,

horses have the hearts of

warriors and often carry us into and out of fields of

battle.

Listen to stories of that once-in-a-lifetime horse; of

journeys made and

challenges met. The best of horses rise to the

challenges we set before

them, asking little in return.

Those who know them understand how fully a horse can

hold a human heart.

Together, we share the pain of sudden loss and the

lingering taste of

long-term illness. We shoulder the burden of deciding

when or whether to

end the life of a true companion.

In the end, we're not certain if God entrusts us to

our horses or our

horses to us. Does it matter? We're grateful God

loaned us the horse in

the first place. And so we pray:

''Dear God,

After You've enjoyed a bit of jumping, please give our

fine horses the

best of care. And, if it's not too much, might we have

at least one more

good gallop when we meet again?"

He's of the colour of the nutmeg. And of the heat of the ginger.... he is pure air and fire; and the dull elements of earth and water never appear in him, but only in patient stillness while his rider mounts him; he is indeed a horse, and all other jades you may call beasts. ~William Shakespeare, Henry V

My heart breaks for you all...for us all. Please know you are in our prayers.  I used to say my motivation for being good here on earth was so that one day I would be reunited with a similar love of my life - a palomino from the stockyards of SC. Teddy has got a great running buddy up there.  we will see them again  - this I know.

I was so lucky to have seen Teddy excel in the 2008 Rolex and was looking forward to seeing him in the Olympics.  My heart goes out to the O'Connor's and Max.  Your pain must be overwhelming.  Know that all of us in the horse world mourn with you and at the same time rejoice in the "little horse that could" and all the joy he brought to us all.  Thoughts and prayers are with you.

We lost our Imperial Grace at the 3/8 pole at Mountaineer two years ago. She was favored 2:1. Gone in a heartbeat, never saw the light at the finish line. We suspect foul play but we will never know. We miss her today, but yes she is still with us, thundering up and down the gentle hills that make up our paddocks.

You will see your beloved soon, in the form of an image playing just beyond your field of vision. That will be him...embrace embrace embrace.

RIP dear Teddy.  You were a super pony with a heart of gold.  You will be missed.      

I couldn't believe the horrible news when I read it!  My heart goes out to the O'Connors and all who were involved with this incredible super pony.  God bless you for doing the right thing.  We never know why these things happen, it is a part of life that no one likes.  Prayers are with you wonderful people and know that he must surely be munching on some wonderfully sweet grass and waiting on you to join him one day to go galloping over the fields of heaven.

Adding my sincerest condolences on the loss of this wonderful soul. I've always been a huge fan and will remember him fondly.

My condolences to his breeder, owners, trainers and all those who loved him.

Godspeed Teddy.

Our family is devastated over the loss of this fantastic pony with the heart of gold.  We know what a loss it is for you and wish all that owned and cared for Teddy the best.  We got to see Teddy at the Fairhill CCI. and were thrilled at his athleticism.  Our prayers and hearts go out to you.

It was lucky for Teddy that he had you wonderful horse people for owners and of course wonderful for you that you took the fantastic journey with him.....very sad the choice you had to make...but it was the "absolute right thing to do"...best of luck and the horseworld's prayers are with you..

Devastating news. With the sadness of Barbaro and Eight Belles, this shows that it truly can 'happen at the barn' not just during high level competition. Dear, astonishing Theodore O'Connor. What a rotten shame.

i loved watching the little horse that could. To me he was almost an eventing symbol; that anything is possible if you have a big enough heart. words don't express the sorrow  and loss the world of eventing is experiencing.

I had always wanted to meet Teddy.  He is my role model, and the standard I hold my pony to, which he was never too happy about.  This pony is amazing.  My biggest fear is that there will never be another "Super Pony" like Teddy.  Lots of people say they picked there horses, but that is not true.  Horses choose people.  Teddy chose the O'Connors and really the whole eventing world.  I LOVE YOU TEDDY, RIP.  You are so amazing.

Losing your Teddy is tragic.

Never to have had him would be still more so.

As much comfort as it can bring, the heartfelt sympathies of innumerable riders and lovers of horses are surely yours!

Thank you Teddy for allowing us to believe in the "little guy". You made it possible to believe that size or anything else that sets one apart from the rest of the crowd, can achieve greatness!

I am not a huge fan of eventing but every now and then you find an amazing horse you just have to admirer.  Theodore O'Conner was one of them.  He wasn't the typical eventer you'd expect to see but yet stood out above the rest.  It brings a tear to your eye when you think about his amazing accomplishments.  Just goes to show you don't have to have the "typical" horse no matter what equine event you partake in to excel in it.  My thoughts and prayers go out to David and Karen.

Our family flew from seattle to rolex this year just to see teddy.  i had to choke back tears watching my 10 year old daughter get mesmerized as he galloped by!!  he was truly a miracle and i thank heaven we made that trip.  my thoughts with everyone around him.