Suzy Stafford Announces Withdrawal From Consideration for 2018 World Championships

Suzy Stafford and PVF Peace of Mind (Photo: Pics of You)

Every equestrian understands that life with horses is filled with plenty of joy and disappointment, and World Champion driver Suzy Stafford is no exception. For the last two years, Stafford and her charismatic Morgan mare PVF Peace of Mind have set their sights on returning to the World Championship stage.

Their quest got off to a promising start with a second-place finish at the Katydid CDE 2* last fall and a strong victory at the Palm Tree CDE 2* earlier this year. But following an unfortunate withdrawal at Live Oak, Stafford has now announced she is pulling herself from consideration for the 2018 FEI World Single Horse Championships in The Netherlands.

"I gave 'Hunny' some time off after Live Oak and although she has been back in work and doing well, it would be a hard push to get her in peak shape to compete against the best in the world," said Stafford. "There will be another show, another year, another ribbon. It's just not our time."

Stafford was quick to thank Hunny's large fan base for their ever-present and enthusiastic support. "As always, Hunny and I are so thankful for how our cheering section has showed up year after year, and it does not go unappreciated," she noted. "Hunny is one of a kind, and 'Morgan strong' is the epitome of her whole being. There is no giving up in her vocabulary and as much as it disappoints us both, ultimately I am responsible for her welfare. So I had to make the tough decision to do what is best for her long-term wellbeing, and this meant withdrawing her from consideration for the World Championships.

"Now I will turn my immediate focus to developing our new farm here in New Jersey, planning my wedding and continuing to work with all the wonderful horses and their owners that make my life so special," Stafford concluded. "I also look forward to starting the process of looking for another talented youngster to bring up the ranks, just like Hunny. In the meantime, I also look forward to cheering on my fellow USA drivers who will represent us at the upcoming World Championships. Please show them your support, as it is needed and appreciated."

To learn more about Stafford Carriage Driving, visit our website, www.staffordcarriagedriving.com