Elite Equine Athlete - Faberge
The Westphalian gelding with a heart as big as his presence
Some horses make an impression the moment you see them. Others leave their mark only once you’ve ridden them. And then there are a rare few like Fabergé, affectionately known as Fluffy, who manage to do both.
A 12-year-old Westphalian gelding standing at 15.3hh, by Feedback 16 out of Feentanz, Fluffy has quickly become one of the most adored horses in Rebecca Shute’s stables. Their partnership may be young, but the connection is unmistakably special.
A Story Written in Fate and Persistence
Fluffy joined Rebecca’s team after what she describes with a laugh:
“I annoyed her enough that she finally caved in and my perfect boy joined our little team.”
His previous owner, close friend Dree Merry, had brought him to Grand Nationals in 2024, and Rebecca took him home. Rebecca had admired him quietly for a long time, drawn not just to his ability but to everything that made him who he is.
“Everything about this boy makes you love him. His personality, his looks, his movement and his willingness. He is truly the most special boy and I just had to have him become part of our family.”
Photo supplied by owner — credit: Angie Rickard.
First Impressions of Potential
Although Fluffy had already enjoyed success in the show ring, Rebecca sensed greater things were ahead.
“Fluffy had already started a successful career as a show horse but I just knew there was more to come. He had been beautifully educated prior to being imported to Australia so he had a wonderful foundation and I was really excited to work with such a talented, exciting and willing horse.”
A Personality That Lights Up the Yard
Fluffy’s stable name says it all.
“Fluffy is a horse you have to fuss and fluff over.”
He thrives on attention, routine, affection and treats.
“He must be the centre of attention. He loves his work, he loves his smooches and he is needy. He is truly a character and he doesn’t give you any other option but to love him.”
There is also his famous social streak.
“Fluffy HAS to be friends with everyone. Horse, human, dog, cat. I always joke that he needs a support person.”
Photo supplied by owner — credit: Lisa Gordon.
Presence You Can’t Manufacture
When it is time to compete, Fluffy knows it.
“He knows when it’s time to hit the competition ring.”
His way of going makes him instantly recognisable.
“His kind big bug eyes and his rhythm and way of travelling make him absolutely stand out in the ring. There isn’t another horse like him.”
His desire to please is part of what makes him so competitive.
“He gives his all for you every ride. He is super trainable, extremely talented and loves to please.”
Emerging as a Force in the Hunter Ring
Their season may not have been packed with competitions, but their results are impressive.
Since forming their partnership, they have achieved:
Champion Childs Hunter Hack, Grand Nationals 2025
Runner Up Small Hunter Hack, Grand Nationals 2025
Champion Hunter Hack at Battle of the Borders
Champion Hunter Hack at Southern Stars Royal Gala
Qualified EA Nationals (Childs and Open)
Qualified Grand Nationals 2026 (Childs, Open and Rider)
Rebecca reflects proudly on their journey.
“Our partnership has grown in leaps and bounds. What we have already achieved in our partnership has completely blown me away and I truly feel that it’s just the beginning for us.”
When asked for one defining moment, she doesn’t hesitate.
“For me there hasn’t been a specific moment it sounds corny (and those that know me well know I have said this from the moment I first sat on him) but everyday he makes me smile, every ride he gives his all and for this he will always be something incredibly special to me.”
Photo supplied by owner — credit: Lisa Gordon.
Training: Building Strength, Softness and Connection
Their training program is primarily dressage based.
“It’s very important to me to have a soft, kind, forward moving horse.”
They work four to five days a week in the arena and hack out once a week, something Fluffy now looks forward to.
“It helps to keep him fresh in the mind and body and I find it super helpful in keeping him engaged and willing.”
Management: Caring for the Athlete
Fluffy’s size and movement mean his care routine is taken seriously.
“With a horse of Fluffy’s bigger build and his huge movement it’s important to make sure he has all the essentials in keeping his mind and body at its peak.”
His program includes supplements, Equissage, bodywork, regular farriery and one non-negotiable:
“One thing I always do without fail is magnetic boots in stable overnight.”
Show Day: Calm, Connection and Precision
Fluffy does not need heavy working down. His preparation focuses on mindset.
“For him it’s more about making sure his mind is on track and we are working as a team.”
Rebecca is meticulous about his presentation.
“I usually do all the preparation myself at a comp because I am a little OCD at making sure everything is perfect.”
And Fluffy always has a helper on hand.
“I usually have a helper be Fluffy’s support person while I get dressed and make sure he doesn’t chew his reins.”
Photo supplied by owner — credit: Lisa Gordon.
Feeding the Athlete
Fluffy is naturally good-doing, so his feeding program is balanced carefully.
“Fluffy is a very well to do horse so it’s more about making sure he has everything he needs but also maintaining a healthy weight.”
He enjoys morning grazing, afternoon work, and a structured evening routine of hay, hard feed and supplements.
Rebecca has seen clear benefits from using Equine Wellness Co products.
“We feed Calm EQ daily to both Fluffy and my daughter and husbands showjumpers. Soothe + Support gel was also a massive game changer for me on comp days. We have noticed a huge improvement in all our horses focus, there overall demeanours are relaxed, balanced and happy. When travelling they settle into comp environments easily and just seem much more adaptable with changes and the hustle and bustle that comes with the comp environments.”
Looking Ahead
The next year holds exciting goals.
“I hope for us to venture into the dressage arena over the coming season as well as continuing our showing and just getting to love and enjoy my horse.”
“We have EA nationals coming up super fast so I am really looking forward to that as it its our first time competing together at this event. After that it will be into Barastoc HOTY and Grand Nationals.”
What Makes Fluffy Exceptional
Rebecca’s final thoughts capture the heart of this profile.
“Fluffy in my eyes is truly exceptional in every way. His personality, his work ethic, his looks, but most importantly his ability to make every day a great one.”
When asked to describe him in three words, she chose the simplest and most honest expression of their bond:
“My best friend.”
Thank you to Rebecca for sharing Fluffy’s story with us. Our Elite Equine Athlete profiles are curated to celebrate exceptional horses and their partnerships, and we look forward to sharing the next inspiring feature with you soon.