It is with great sadness that we record the passing of Dr Robert (Bob) Douglas who was a long standing and much valued member of the ISER community. He was formerly an assistant professor at Michigan State University and the University of Kentucky with bench marked papers published. Forty two years ago, Bob was instrumental in the founding of B.E.T. Labs, an endocrine diagnostic service based in Lexington, Kentucky, USA of which he was the co-owner and president. He also was a co-founder of B.E.T. Labs in Brazil twenty seven years ago. These were commercial enterprises but Bob retained an interest in the application of his skills and knowledge to collaborate with academic and clinical colleagues mainly in the USA and South America, publishing the data. Bob’s kindness to everyone and broad smile, as well as his deep knowledge and experience of equine endocrinology will leave a chasm in our community. We would like to express our sincere condolences to his family and his many friends and colleagues around the world.

It is with sadness that we learnt of the recent death of Dr William (Tom) Riddle who was a long standing and much valued financial supporter of the International Symposium on Equine Reproduction. With his longstanding friend and colleague Dr William Rood, Dr Riddle founded the world-renowned Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Kentucky, USA in 1982. Dr. Riddle was an internationally recognized authority on equine reproductive medicine and was honored with numerous awards and distinctions. Working with farm managers, researchers, and colleagues, Dr. Riddle offered invaluable guidance on the causes of Mare Reproductive Loss Syndrome, the efficacy of twin elimination, and the relationship between uterine cytology and culture results and pregnancy outcomes. An exceptional veterinarian and person, he mentored everyone fortunate enough to know him and learn from his example. A tireless supporter of equine reproduction, Dr. Riddle contributed to the training and participation of countless veterinarians. He will be remembered as a remarkable equine veterinarian and true family man, providing a steady example of integrity and humility, and his great sense of humor.