Freedom Acrobatics

Cyrus, our “comeback horse,” has officially earned his retirement.

It’s hard to put into words what this incredible horse has meant to Freedom Acrobatics and to the countless vaulters who have had the privilege of learning, laughing, competing, and growing with him.

Cyrus, a stunning Clydesdale/Thoroughbred cross, came to us in the spring of 2017. His combination of size, strength, agility, and—most importantly—his sweet and gentle nature made him beautifully suited to vaulting.

Then, in January 2018, everything changed.

Cyrus suffered a near-catastrophic injury to his hind leg, and for a time, we truly thought we might lose him. Through incredible daily care, patience, and his own determination, he began to heal beautifully. But it seemed almost certain that his vaulting career was over.

Cyrus moved to a new home to convalesce and enjoy a quieter life.

Or so we thought. 😉

In September 2018 we were contacted with some surprising news: Cyrus was JUMPING the fences in the pasture! They wondered if perhaps he was ready to return to work—and did we want him back?

The answer was a resounding YES!

And what followed was an extraordinary second chapter.

Cyrus went on to carry everyone from our tiniest vaulters to our most senior vaulters competing on the international stage. He cross-trained in dressage, enjoyed trail rides, and became a trusted partner to our athletes.

He was patient when little legs were learning, steady when nerves took over, and somehow always seemed to know when a vaulter needed a little extra kindness.

He wasn’t just a horse who carried people.

He was a teacher, a teammate, a confidence-builder, a competition partner, and a very special part of our Freedom family.

And now, after everything he has given us, it’s finally time for Cyrus to put his feet up and enjoy the retirement he so thoroughly deserves. ❤️

Thank you, Cyrus, for coming back when we thought we had lost you. Thank you for every child you helped teach, every vaulter you carried, every competition you conquered, and every memory you helped create.

Your comeback was legendary.
Your career was incredible.
And your retirement is very, very well deserved. 🥹❤️

Happy retirement, Cyrus. You’ll always be one of our very best boys. 🐴❤️✨

Great memories made for our vaulters at Provincials/CVI this past weekend! Thank you to our volunteers, judges, coaches and lungers for everything you do!

Thank you to coaches, judges, lungers, parents and organizers for a successful Future Champions/CVI this past weekend! Shout out to Koot-Neigh for sharing your horses with us!