WELLINGTON, Fla.--Imperial, McLain Ward's top hope for both a team and individual medal in the Los Angeles Olympics, was humanely destroyed after suffering colic.

McLain Ward on Imperial HBF at La BauleWard got the ride on imperial early in 2024 and started winning almost immediately.

Among his wins on Imperial, in just his second or third ride on Imperial, Ward finished clean in the Nations Cup at Rome in May to anchor the team to a win, and the he finished second in the Loro Piana Trophy. 

In 2025, Ward's clean round on Imperial as the anchor rider for the team won the Nations Cup for the U.S. 

McLain just loves this horse," said chef d'equipe Robert Ridland after one of his winning rounds. "He comes out smiling after every class."

"It is with great sadness that we share the loss of Imperial HBF (“Paddy”) yesterday due to complications from colic,"said Ward.. "Paddy suffered a bout of colic and, despite two surgeries and every possible effort to save him, the incredibly difficult decision was made—by his owner Michael Smith, myself, and a devoted team of caretakers and veterinarians—that the kindest and most humane choice was to let him go.
Paddy fought tirelessly, just as he did throughout his career as a competitor, and our entire family and team are devastated by his loss.
During this challenging time, his owner, Mike Smith, exemplified true horsemanship—spending countless hands-on hours by Paddy’s side, doing everything possible to support his recovery, and never wavering in his trust in the team caring for him.
The veterinarians and support staff at Rood & Riddle Wellington, along with Dr. Tim Ober, were nothing short of extraordinary. As always, I am deeply grateful to my own team for their unwavering dedication and compassion throughout this process.
Godspeed, Imperial."