AFTER 30 years at centre of Germany’s international team squads, four-time Olympic gold medallist Ludger Beerbaum announced his retirement from team riding, handing over the mantle to younger riders.

Beerbaum, who turns 53 shortly, has also won two gold, one silver and one bronze at the World Championships as well as six golds, three silver and two bronze medals at the European Championships over the years. He has been the backbone of the German team in over 130 Nations Cup appearances.