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This past week, the hunter under saddle community lost one of its brightest stars with the passing of Huntin Buddy, affectionately known as “Buddy.” More than just a show horse, Buddy was a true partner and a once-in-a-lifetime kind of horse whose presence elevated everyone around him.
Bred with talent, presence, and a spark that set him apart, Buddy quickly rose to prominence in the show pen. His elegance and charisma not only earned him accolades but also helped put his rider, Beth Gouthro, firmly on the map in the hunter under saddle world.
Beth reflected: “Huntin Buddy was one of the greatest horses of my career… He was playful and quirky like all the great ones are, and he absolutely turned it on when it was time to trot into the show pen. He was truly a once-in-a-lifetime horse that I was lucky enough to get twice.”
Buddy’s story is also one of community. From Betsy & Butch Runyan, who first entrusted him as a yearling, to the Sullivan family, Peter Cofrancesco, Wynne DiGrassie, and countless friends and supporters along the way — his journey was made richer by the people who believed in him and cheered him on.
He set the standard by which all others were compared, embodying the qualities of grit, brilliance, and heart. More than ribbons and accolades, Buddy leaves behind a legacy of lessons, memories, and the reminder of what it means to truly partner with a horse.
Run free in green pastures, Buddy. Thank you for the ride — you will forever be missed, but never forgotten.
