Farewell Into The Blue

British Dressage is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Into The Blue, Louise Bell’s outstanding dual-discipline heart horse. 

Into The Blue (Ublesco x Calvaro Z) – known to his friends as ‘Dynamo Bell’ - was a horse of rare versatility and quality, whose career spanned disciplines at the very highest level. Bred by John Whitaker, he first made his mark as a working hunter, achieving the remarkable distinction of standing Working Hunter Champion at both the Royal International Horse Show and Royal Windsor Horse Show — a testament to his athleticism, bravery and presence. 

Following this success and an encounter with a different sport, Dynamo embarked on an entirely new career in dressage, learning his new craft alongside his equally talented rider Louise. Together the pair progressed through the levels to Grand Prix, with the roan gelding demonstrating exceptional trainability and willingness to embrace the demands of a second discipline. 

At international Grand Prix level, Dynamo enjoyed significant success both at home and abroad. He competed successfully across Europe and produced notable performances at major venues including Olympia, Hickstead and Windsor, excelling in front of adoring home crowds. His consistency and quality were further recognised through selection to British teams, including representing Great Britain at several Nations Cups, from Hickstead at home, to Uggerhalne, Geesteren, Aachen, Compiegne and Rotterdam overseas. 

Throughout his dressage career, Dynamo competed seven times at the National Championships, with five appearances at Grand Prix level, underlining his longevity and sustained competitiveness at the top of the sport. 

Through his elite achievements, Dynamo never lost his unmistakable enthusiasm for life and work. Known for his expressive character, he could often be seen squealing and bucking with energy, a reflection of a horse who took genuine pleasure in his work. This zest for life, combined with his professionalism, made him a joy to train, compete and be around, and set him apart as a horse of rare spirit as well as ability. 

Beyond his results, Dynamo will be remembered for his character and his extraordinary journey from champion working hunter to international Grand Prix dressage horse. His career stands as a powerful example of what can be achieved through thoughtful training, patience and partnership. 

British Dressage extends its sincere condolences to Louise Bell and all those connected with Into The Blue. He will be remembered as a horse of outstanding achievement, adaptability, and an enduring example of joy in sport. 

Speaking on social media, an emotional Lou said: “I am in total devastation and heartbreak to tell you all ,that yesterday I had to say goodbye to my soulmate the one and only Dynamo. 

You know there will be the day... but after announcing his retirement from top competition last week in Horse & Hound I didn’t imagine the following week he’d be gone, due to complications of a displaced colon I could not have him suffer any more. 

As awful and awful it was, it was a clear decision... what was best for him was something I wish no one has to endure. Losing my father less than a month ago to losing Dynamo too is just too much to bear, but he was loved not only by me but by so many of you wonderful people that are my friends and followers. Dynamo always lived like a king, he always controlled the yard and his presence in the arena whether showing or dressage allowed everyone to see his awesome personality.  

This horse took me to places most only dream of, and when I decided to take up dressage he came with me, he taught me and he tested me but I loved every second of him. The times we have had together all over Europe even to Majorca! Where stories I could write a whole book on in themselves, a LEGEND! He wowed the crowd, he wowed me every day with his beauty and strength and total love for me too. Anyone that was part of the “team Dynamo” I thank you on behalf of him, he is a horse never to be forgotten for his tremendous talent to have excelled in two fantastically successful careers, there will never be another quite like him.  

It has truly been an honour to have had him in my life for 17 wonderful years, there will always be a hole in my heart and a pain in my chest, and I need to be stronger now than I’ve ever been, I cannot explain how sad and low I feel and I’m extremely lucky to have such wonderful friends in my hour of need, thank you. As difficult it is writing this post I know so many of you loved him like me, but to say goodbye is the saddest thing to say, so till we meet again Dynamo and we will!! Look after my Dad and Rocky and the gang and be free be happy and be my Dynamo Bell forever.”