On April 24 and 25, two well-known doyennes of equestrian sport passed away, respectively, Alexandra, Countess of Dohna, who died at the age of 85, and Liz Edgar (76). Very different lives, but sharing a lifetime common passion for horses.

The Countess, from an East Prussian aristocratic dynasty known for its horse breeding, was closely associated with Trakehner horses throughout her life, breeding the licensed stallions, Kondor, Korsakow, Korado and Kissinger.

Liz Edgar enjoyed great international showjumping success, having first competed at Horse of the Year show aged 12, and becoming the first woman to win the five-star Aachen Grand Prix riding Everest Forever. The younger sister of David Broome, and married to fellow showjumper Ted Edgar, breeding became a passion for Liz in later life, with her products including Ben Maher's 2015 European championship ride Diva II, out of her own successful mare Debutante.

Two grand dames whose loss will be felt throughout the equestrian community. Our sincere condolences to their families and friends at this sad time.