Farewell to a champion who was rider's best friend

Hayley Watson-Greaves' superstar Rubins Nite has died aged 21, after a happy retirement

- By ELEANOR JONES

HAYLEY WATSON-GREAVES has said a heartbroken farewell to her superstar Rubins Nite, her “dance partner, teacher and best friend” for 19 years.

Rubin Royal son “Squeaks” suffered a bout of colic aged 21 and could not be saved. He had been enjoying a happy retirement for two years.

“He was the most incredible, special horse, my heart horse, who gave his all,” Hayley said. “He loved being in the limelight, dancing to his music, and he truly made me the rider and person I am today.

“We had the most special bond and partnership, one built on trust, respect and love. Together we achieved things I could only have dreamed of.”

Hayley and Rubins Nite were national champions in 2017, represented Britain on teams, including winning the Compiègne Nations Cup in 2017, competed in the 2018 World Cup Final and were reserves for the 2016 Olympics.

Hayley bought Squeaks as a two-year-old for £3,000.

“The lady wasn’t sure he’d go in my trailer,” she told H&H. “I stood in his stable, blowing in his nose and giving him a scratch, then he just followed me on. And the rest is history.”

“Horses make you who you are, and Squeaks made me”