On 26 September 1994 our lives were changed forever. A very special colt foal had been born at Simeon Stud, Australia. His name was Simeon Shemini.

Elite British endurance competitor Tricia Hirst recently announced that her French-bred Anglo gelding, Madjin des Pins (Said Lotois x Perlingueta) is retiring from the sport after a stellar career that has spanned almost a decade.

One of the most enduring sires in recent years has been the great Vervaldee, in turn a son of the great Versace, both of whom passed away far too soon.

Words and photography by Anette Mattsson www.fotografmattsson.comLead Picture: Patria The year 2016 is when the foundations for many of us were shaken to such an...