“Sass With Class”

2005  – June 28th 2019

• 2005
• 15.3 hh
• Thoroughbred
• Mare

On June 28th 2019, we said unexpected goodbye to a sassy mare affectionately known around the farm as Malibu. Malibu came into Madison’s (Coach Maddy)  life on Sept 14th 2013 and the mare became an integral part of the Dronfield family immediately. Malibu came as a project first horse to 15year old Maddy after years of part boarding. Malibu was to be Maddy’s future jumper! But what Maddy didn’t know is the adventure Malibu was about to put her on that in the end, has taught Maddy so many important lessons to become the horsewoman she is today.

Malibu and Maddy had hard work ahead of them but Maddy put in the work, on the ground and in the saddle teaching Malibu how to jump and man could she jump! But also a big focus on proper flat work turning to dressage. The pair showed in local schooling hunter and Dressage shows and eventually making their way up to the Trillium Hunters. 

May 22nd 2015 Malibu was diagnosed with Kissing Spine, for the next few years Maddy and her family rehabbed and treated Malibu and eventually lead to the retirement of Malibu from riding. Malibu and Maddy experienced a unique partnership that even a non-equestrian could see the bond between these two was based on mutual respect and kindness. The two loved just “hanging out” and spending time with each other until the end. 

Malibu will be greatly missed by Maddy and the Kuruka family alike.

“Oh Malibu, I’ll love you forever. 

My heart hurts so much. But at least now, you’re free from pain.

You’ve taught me so much and I can’t thank you enough.

It’s so surreal still and I’m literally at a loss for words.

I had to say goodbye to my best friend, my shoulder to cry on –

the one thing in my life that would make literally anything better, my heart horse.

Thank you Malibu

Enjoy the greener pastures, I’ll never stop loving you.

Until we meet again, my dear”

– Maddy