Abdullah inducted in the Show Jumping Hall of Fame

The Show Jumping Hall of Fame held its annual induction ceremony at the Budweiser American Invitational at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla., on April 4. Honored with induction were Dr. John Steele and the horses Abdullah, Miss Budweiser and Riviera Wonder.

Induction into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame is bestowed annually upon select individuals whose contributions to the sport have set them apart from others and whose influence has had a significant impact on the world of show jumping. The election committee is comprised of the nation's top riders, trainers and officials.

The new inductees join the previous 61 inductees enshrined into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame.

ABDULLAH

Abdullah was one of the most successful horses the show jumping world has ever seen. His illustrious career was highlighted by his standout performances at the 1984 Olympic Games, 1985 World Cup Final and 1986 World Championships.

Abdullah was purchased by Terry and Sue Williams as a three-year-old stallion as an event and breeding prospect. The striking grey Trakehner soon showed his propensity for show jumping after a successful dressage and eventing career.

Abdullah embarked on a show jumping career that saw him carry riders Conrad Homfeld, Joe Fargis and Debbie Shaffner to great grand prix success, three World Cup Finals, and spots on U.S. teams at CSIOs in Europe. However, it was with Homfeld in the irons that he put together his incredible three-year stretch that ranks among show jumping's most memorable.

Homfeld rode Abdullah to a clear round in the team competition at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games to help the United States clinch its first-ever team gold medal. The pair also won the silver medal in the individual competition. In 1985, Abdullah and Homfeld finished first at the FEI World Cup Final in Berlin. In 1986 they helped the U.S. win another team gold medal at the World Championships in Aachen. The pair served as the anchor for the team, and Abdullah was named Leading Horse of the competition, with Homfeld adding another individual silver medal.