Tragic Loss: 13-Year-Old Gelding Chromatic BF Dies Following Impressive Performance in Longines FEI Jumping World Cup

On Thursday, April 18th, Chromatic BF, a 13-year-old Oldenburg gelding owned by KC Branscomb and Branscomb Farms LLC, tragically collapsed and died in the stabling area following an impressive performance in the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final. The gelding had finished third in the second round of the jumping competition earlier in the evening, with rider Jill Humphrey posting a time of 48.36 seconds to secure a podium spot.

The pair had been in fifth place in the overall standings after finishing 12th on Wednesday. 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 the 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.