Tragic Loss: 13-Year-Old Show Jumper Chromatic BF Dies at Longines FEI World Cup

On Thursday, April 18th, during the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final, tragedy struck when 13-year-old Oldenburg gelding Chromatic BF collapsed and died in the stabling area. The announcement was made by the Fédération Equestre Internationale.

Chromatic BF had finished third in the second round of the jumping competition earlier in the evening, owned by breeder KC Branscomb and Branscomb Farms LLC. Ridden by Jill Humphrey, he posted a time of 48.36 seconds in a seven-horse jump-off to secure a podium spot along with the Swedish teams of Henrik von Eckermann and Peder Fredricson.

The pair had finished 12th on Wednesday and were in fifth place in the overall standings. Following Chromatic BF’s collapse, he received immediate medical attention from both U.S. Equestrian veterinary staff and FEI veterinarians. Unfortunately, despite their efforts, he could not be resuscitated.

In line with FEI veterinary regulations, samples have been taken from the horse and a full postmortem will be conducted as per FEI protocols to determine the cause of this sudden tragedy. The U.S. Equestrian Federation expressed its deepest condolences to Jill Humphrey, KC Branscomb, Branscomb Farm LLC, his groom Pepe Rodriguez, and everyone else involved in Chromatic BF’s care and competition journey.

Chromatic BF was known for his incredible athleticism and talent on the showjumping course. His loss is deeply felt by all those who knew him and are mourning his tragic end to an outstanding career.