Franziska Fries’ Grand Prix horse Atomic, a 19-year-old KWPN gelding, has been retired from sport. Originally named Atticus, Atomic made his show debut in 2014 and went on to compete internationally under Fries, representing Austria at the European Under 25 Championships in 2017 and 2018. Fries and Atomic had successful showings in the classic Grand Prix tour, winning the Kur to Music at the 2019 European Championships and earning bronze at the 2021 Austrian Grand Prix Championships.
In the autumn of 2021, Atomic transitioned to being a U25 schoolmaster for Austrian rider Florian Artner. The duo competed in U25 classes in various international shows in 2022 and 2023 to gain experience and mileage. After a break from the show scene, Atomic returned in 2024 at national level shows with Thomas Chalupsky-Fries as the rider, competing in medium tour and Grand Prix tests.
On December 13, Fries announced Atomic’s retirement from sport, expressing gratitude for their time together and looking forward to many wonderful years with her “clown.” Atomic’s retirement marks the end of a successful competitive career and the beginning of a well-deserved retirement for the beloved horse.
