David Asimus - Australian Jumping

rider History

David Asimus

Equestrian Memories Australia

With his super horse Golden Grand (‘Goldie’), David Asimus,’DA’ as he was known to his friends, won many top jumping competitions across the country. Golden Grand was a very consistent horse on which David won the 1982/83 Pacific League standing and competed in the World Cup Final in Vienna in 1983, finishing in 12th position. In total David won four World Cup qualifiers. Other good horses in his stable were Piperline, Madock and Rhythm Rock.

David always had time for people and had many friends. Whilst he was riding he was also a dedicated administrator on a number of state and federal bodies.

David met his wife Melissa whilst they were both competing at Sydney Showjumping Club. In 1994, at the age of 45, David contracted a serious illness and suddenly passed away, leaving his wife and seven week old son Jack. His passing was obviously devastating for his family, but also for the entire showjumping community.

An early photo of David Asimus and Ben.

Above: Team of four hunters around 1970. David Asimus riding Harlem Boy, Tony Norman on Chicago, Guy Creighton on Rattler and Peter Mullins on Jet.

David was part of the Australian Jumping Team for the Moscow Olympics. Sadly the FEI said that countries should not compete and Australia (despite competing in other sports) were forced to go to Rotterdam, which they then called the alternate Olympics.

Above: The Australian Team, assembled in 1979. Left to Right: Helen Crowley (Page), Greg Eurell, Gavin Chester, David Asimus, Chris Smith, Marianne Gilchrist, and Bob Brook (Manager).

Above: Photo taken in Sydney prior to 1988 Seoul Olympic Games. Left to Right: Greg McDermott, David Asimus, Vicki Roycroft, George Sanna, Colleen Brook, Rod Brown and Manager Stan Fear.