Bourdy passed away yesterday following a 26-year international career that included two Olympic bronze medals, as well as a World Championship bronze.

Born in Troyes in North-Eastern France, Bourdy first represented his country in 1983 and it was not long before he claimed major international success by winning team jumping bronze aboard Morgat at the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul alongside Michel Robert and La Fayette; Frédéric Cottier and Flambeau G; and Pierre Durand on board Jappeloup.

That success was repeated four years later in Barcelona, this time on Razzia du Poncel, as Bourdy and teammates Robert onboard Nonix, Hervé Godignon riding Quidam de Revel and Eric Navet on Quito de Baussy finished behind Austria and winners The Netherlands.

In between times, Bourdy and Morgat were part of the French team that claimed the gold medal at the inaugural World Equestrian Games in Stockholm in 1990, where the duo also secured individual bronze.

Along with two Olympic bronze medals, Bourdy also won World Championship gold and bronze in an international career spanning over 25 years ©AFP/Getty Images




Bourdy retired from competitive riding in 2009 and began a successful horse dealing business which grew to be one of the most prominent in Europe.

As a mark of respect, a minute's silence was held at the Stade d'Ornano in Caen yesterday, before the second jumping competition at the test event for the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy taking place in August.

"The passing of Hubert is very sad news," said FEI director of jumping John Roche, who extended his deep condolences to the family and friends of Bourdy.

"He was a real character and a true horseman who has inspired many people.

"Despite his illness, he was still present at major FEI events, including the Longines FEI World Cup Jumping Finals in Lyon in April and CSI4 Bourg en Bresse three weeks ago.

"His talent and sense of humour will be sadly missed."

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