H&C is saddened to learn that Olympic dressage rider Jane Gregory has died aged just 51-years-old, following a heart attack.

Jane rode for Team GB at the 2008 Olympics in Hong Kong and at Atlanta in 1996. She is believed to have suffered a massive heart attack while riding at home last Monday. She was on life support in a coma, but died on Friday.

Distinguished career

Two-time Olympian Jane Gregory is survived by her husband Aram. The couple married in 2006 after 20 years together and set up their home and training base at Greenlands Farm in 2001. Jane first came to the International stage in 1994 with Suzie Cumine’s Cupido when she represented Britain at the World Equestrian Games. Two years later, she made her Olympic debut in Atlanta with the same horse. After several years out of the limelight, Jane made a comeback in 2008 with Aram’s Lucky Star. Some great performances at Munich and Lipica earned them a ticket to the Beijing Olympics in Hong Kong. Since 2008, she had a stable of up-and-coming horses in Dancing with Wolves, Douglas IV and Soul Sister all scoring wins at levels up to Prix St Georges. 

An inspiration to many

British Dressage Chairman Jennie Loriston-Clarke commented: “This is tragic news. Jane Gregory was an inspiration to many in the sport and was so proud every time she competed for her country. Her enthusiasm, energy, dedication and positive outlook on life was infectious and she always had time for everyone. She will be dearly missed by all in British Dressage and everyone who had the privilege to meet her or watch her perform. Our thoughts are with Aram and Jane’s family and friends at this difficult time.”