Equestrian Canada (EC) extends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Ian Black of Orangeville, ON, who passed away on Feb. 7, 2020, at the age of 82.
Black’s eventing career began in his native Great Britain, where he was long listed for the national team in the 1970s. There, he earned the nickname “Toes Black” for his unusual style of pointing his toes downward over fences. Black also learned the art of course design and lent his talents to prestigious events such as the Royal Welsh Show. He had a successful career as a saddler and ran equestrian centres across Great Britain.
In 1979, Black emigrated to Canada with his wife, Rozanne, and son, Stuart. They settled at the farm of Douglas and Joan Kendall and started the Lammont Training Centre. From his new home base, Black produced top event horses and riders, many of whom went on to successful careers as athletes, stable managers, judges or trainers. He served as a coach for the Ontario Young Riders Team and, alongside his wife, started the Ontario Cross-Country Trials based on the British Hunter Trials. The Ontario Cross-Country Trials enjoyed immense popularity in the 1980s and brought many riders into the discipline through its exciting cross-country gallops.
Black continued his work as an official throughout the decades, earning certification as an EC Dressage Judge and Senior Eventing Course Designer. He was also an FEI Candidate for Eventing Course Design.
“My friend Ian lived for the sport of eventing,” said Jo Young, an EC certified Dressage, Para-Dressage and Level 3 Eventing Judge, FEI Level 3 Eventing Judge and Level 1 Eventing Steward. “His enthusiasm inspired everybody he touched. He contributed to all aspects of the sport as a competitor, coach, trainer, course designer, organizer and judge. Few others have done as much.”
Despite an early retirement due to ill health, Black remained a popular local dressage judge and was closely tied to the eventing community until his passing. He is survived by his children, Stuart and Fiona, and his granddaughter, Kayleigh.
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