Latest from Horse & Hound in Rotational-fall

Rotational falls in eventing at all-time low – but more work ‘still to do’

Lucy Elder — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 13:11:35 +0000

Rotational fall rates reached an all-time low in international eventing in 2022.

Last year had a record number of events and starters, with 788 competitions and 21,560 starters – an increase of 19.4% on the number of competitions in 2021 and a 12.1% increase in starters.

FEI eventing committee chairman David O’Connor and FEI risk management steering group chairman Geoff Sinclair presented the data at the federation’s eventing risk management forum in Jardy last month.

The headline figure was the drop in rotational fall rates. The percentage of starters having a rotational fall, which have the highest risk of injury for horse and rider, has decreased from 0.2% in 2011 to 0.07% last year. This equates to a drop from one rotational fall every 510 starters to one in every 1,437 starters.

Rates of non-rotational horse falls at a cross-country fence are not as low as they were in the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, but are lower than they were pre-pandemic and significantly below 2011, which was the first year of “realistic reliable data”.

With the exception of the two pandemic years, 2022 also marked the lowest number of horse falls and rotational falls in real terms since 2011.

Mr O’Connor said the reductions are “to be congratulated” but “there is still work to do”.

“Rotational falls have really reduced by a tremendous amount – we’re at our lowest rate,” he said.

“Everything that we’re doing from course-design to shapes of fences and frangible technology coming in, is what is driving that number down.”

Mr O’Connor also voiced concerns that he feels concussions may be under-reported. The FEI has collected concussion data since 2018. In 2022, 17 were reported – 10 linked to serious injury and seven to slight injury.

He added that his impression from dealing with other horse sports is that the figure is “underrated”, and questioned whether that is down to the reporting process or recognition of concussions.

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Rider who broke back, ribs and hand in rotational fall qualifies for nationals five weeks on

Eleanor Jones — Mon, 01 Aug 2022 11:54:40 +0000

A rider who suffered a broken vertebra, shoulder blade, hand, knuckle and ribs in a rotational fall came back to jump triple clear and qualify for the national championships five weeks later.

Leigh Smallacombe and Los Angeles fell at Chard on 10 June, but Leigh and five-year-old gelding Flagstaff King finished second in the British novice second round at Dorset Showground on 24 July.

“I thought I wouldn’t get through as I was a bit rusty!” Leigh told H&H. “It was my first show back and I jumped 90cm on the Friday, and worked my way up, and we ended up jumping triple clear.”

Leigh said she was knocked out when six-year-old Los Angeles fell last month.

“The pole got caught between his legs, and my head between him and the pole,” she said. “I was out cold so I don’t remember any of it, and I don’t want to.

“There wasn’t going to be an ambulance for five hours so they had to take me to hospital by car. It’s funny as out of all my injuries, it was the broken knuckle that was really sore; people would say what about the vertebra, but the knuckle was the worst!”

Leigh, who is a UKCC level three coach and a hairdresser, and has a livery yard, started working with a leading sports physiotherapist soon after her fall, to ensure she recovered as well as possible. She started with gentle hacking and worked her way up.

She may still need surgery to correct her scapula winging; her shoulder blade is sticking out rather than lying flat owing to nerve damage sustained in the fall, but doctors have advised waiting to see how it recovers. Los Angeles had some physio and time off but was uninjured in the fall, and “bounced straight back”.

“Dorset was my first show back and I was cautious at first, to say the least,” Leigh said. “But they jumped double clear in both classes for two days, and I entered the second round a bit tongue in cheek. I wasn’t sure I was strong enough or riding well enough to be competitive but we jumped clear. I thought we’ll go in the second round and probably have a pole, then went clear again and I thought ‘Oh, now I’m in the third round’.

“I just wanted to jump triple clear and it was such an achievement. It would have been the biggest he’s jumped but he’s got such a big heart; he wants to do it more than I do, and he’s always got the biggest smile on his face.”

Leigh, who will head to the British Showjumping National Championships (2-7 August) with both horses, as Los Angeles had already qualified for the British novice final, wanted others to see how with “hard work, determination and the right support, we can achieve our goals”, and that rider physio should be more prominent.

“We need so much more of that,” she said, adding that the exercises she did under her physio’s guidance helped strengthen and support her to recover.

“It makes me quite emotional to have had quite a bad accident and come straight back,” she said. “I’d just like to tell people to keep going, get the physio, have a goal and work towards it. I’m so proud of my little horse, and he really deserves it.”

Top young rider who broke back in rotational fall returns to eventing success

Gemma Redrup — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 13:35:31 +0000

Things were looking bright and promising for young event rider Phoebe Locke in the first half of 2021. She had just moved out of her parents’ Somerset yard and had set up on her own in Gloucestershire, she had 11 horses in her string and she was going it alone to make a business out of eventing.

Then disaster struck when she suffered a rotational fall on 18 June in the open intermediate at Nunney International Horse Trials with Union Fortunus.

“I broke my back and pelvis and was out for six weeks – it was really bad timing, as I’d only just gone out on my own,” said 22-year-old Phoebe, who has represented Great Britain on pony and junior European eventing teams. “I worked hard to get back in the saddle and returned to competition on 4 September.”

Last week (11 March) Phoebe and 19-year-old Pica D’Or added nothing to their 28.6 dressage score at Oasby Horse Trials to finish second in open intermediate section J.

“Pica D’Or is a legend to go and perform that well at his age. He was trembling and bucking at the start of the cross-country in excitement – he absolutely loves it and isn’t ready to retire yet,” she said.

Phoebe and Pica D’Or have enjoyed great success together since they teamed up in 2018, including scoring a CCI4*-S victory at Strzegom Horse Trials in Poland in September 2020.

“He can still be a bit of a monkey at home, spinning round on the gallops, for example, but he’s been brilliant for my career,” said Phoebe, who finished in the top 10 on all three of her Oasby open intermediate rides; Bellagio Declyange and Clotaire De Ferivel joined Pica D’Or at the Lincolnshire event.

Read the full report from Oasby (1) Horse Trials in the 17 March issue of Horse & Hound magazine.

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Injured four-star rider forced to ‘write off’ eventing season looks to the future

Becky Murray — Sun, 26 Sep 2021 20:03:56 +0000

An event rider is looking to the future after overcoming two serious injuries that ruled out his competition season.

Four-star rider and coach James Stocker, 24, suffered a rotational fall with mare Mistral Mish Mash in the intermediate class at Tweseldown on 2 April that resulted in two broken collar bones.

“We were three from home in the cross-country when the horse left a leg, fell, and landed on top of me,” James told H&H, adding Mistral Mish Mash was not injured in the fall.

“The paramedics identified I had broken one collar bone, but when I was taken to hospital for X-rays it was found I had broken both. I’ve never been in so much pain. The worst part was when we were on our way to hospital I could feel both bones rubbing together and moving up and down, it’s a feeling I won’t forget.”

James was sent home from hospital with two slings to support the breaks.

“It’s quite difficult as collarbones can’t be put in a cast so all you can do is wear a sling,” he said.

“It was quite upsetting as you don’t realise how much you use your collarbones, suddenly your freedom is taken away. I couldn’t do simple things like brush my own teeth or drive.”

James was put in touch with renowned “jockey doctor” Philip Pritchard and was introduced to the ClaviBrace, a product designed by Barbara Thompson to support clavicle fractures. James then began a treatment programme with specialist orthopaedic surgeon Ian Bayley of Clementine Churchill Hospital to straighten his collarbones weekly, with support from the ClaviBrace.

“It took quite a while for things to improve at first and I had to move back to my parents home in Cornwall. But the brace made me much more comfortable, and I was in a lot less pain than before,” said James.

James said thanks to Dr Bayley he returned to the saddle sooner than he thought he would – at the end of the May. He was signed off as a patient, but the following day tore a ligament in his knee that required surgery.

“I was bending down to pick something up when it happened. It was so frustrating having got back on board the week before. After the surgery I had to wear a full leg brace for six weeks and that’s when I wrote the rest of the eventing season off for my horses,” said James.

“The recovery was difficult as I couldn’t really use crutches because my collarbones aren’t as strong as someone else’s might be. But after a couple of weeks of pottering around I was able to go back to teaching.”

After six weeks James returned to the saddle.

“I was excited to get back on but I had to take things quite easy. I got back on my four-star horse Rudy Valentino, I’ve had him nearly eight years and trusted he wouldn’t try to put me on the floor!” said James.

“Since then I’ve been concentrating on my fitness and strength but I’m pretty much back to normal. The plan is to get out to showjumping and dressage during winter in preparation for next year’s eventing season.”

James said while it was “upsetting” having two major setbacks, he tried to stay focused by looking to the future.

“It’s tough when you have those difficult days where you’re just sitting there thinking about everything but you just have to think about your end goal, know that you won’t be broken forever hopefully, be patient and carry on,” he said.

Four-star event rider seriously injured in rotational fall makes competition comeback

Becky Murray — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 19:03:21 +0000

A four-star event rider who broke her pelvis and back in a rotational fall in June has made her competition comeback and taken two top-three placings.

Former junior and young rider European team medallist Phoebe Locke, 22, was riding 13-year-old gelding Union Fortunus in the open intermediate class at Nunney on 18 June when he fell at the water jump.

“We had been in the lead after the dressage and had a good round showjumping,” she told H&H.

“I think we were three from home and he hesitated at the water and left a leg. He flipped, landed on top of me, rolled over and as he got up he stood on my leg and the studs went through the muscle.”

Phoebe went to hospital where X-rays revealed she had broken her pelvis and a bone in her lower back. She also required surgery to clean and stitch the wound on her leg. Union Fortunus was not injured in the accident.

“It was pretty awful, especially because I’ve never had a bad fall before or gone to hospital for anything. I had quite a scare and I was also disappointed because I thought that’s my season over,” said Phoebe.

“The doctors initially said I wouldn’t be back on a horse for three to six months. I spent the week in hospital and to start with I couldn’t move my legs or do anything for myself. I was so fed up being in there and because I’d been lying down for so long when they tried to get me up my blood pressure dropped so low I couldn’t even sit up. I was quite annoyed with myself that I couldn’t sit up and not feel ill – that was hard.”

Once Phoebe’s blood pressure was under control she began physio to get her back on her feet and she was released from hospital.

“I was told I had to be able to walk and use the stairs with crutches before they would let me home. I was so determined. They said they’d never seen anyone progress so much,” she said.

“I felt so much better to be going home. I moved to my new base in Gloucester at the start of the season and live in a flat above the indoor arena which has a lot of stairs, but luckily my landlord has a self-contained ground floor flat attached to their house so they kindly said I could move in there.”

Phoebe continued with rehab and credits the use of BEMER therapy, a device that uses electro-magnectic waves to stimulate muscles and increase blood circulation, for her prompt healing.

“When I went back for X-rays six weeks after my accident the doctors said I was 95% healed and asked what I had been doing,” she said. “I was told I could return to riding, but they said I should be pain-led and I was only to do it if I was feeling fine. They said I should take it easy and that any form of riding or exercise shouldn’t dislodge my fractures because they had healed so well,” she said.

“Riding felt a bit weird to start. I was worried I wouldn’t be able to see a stride again but everything came back to me. The first time I went cross-country schooling I did think ‘I hope I don’t fall off again’, but I have quite a strong mindset and I knew I couldn’t let this affect me. I didn’t want this silly injury to hold me back.”

On Saturday (4 September) Phoebe enjoyed her first competition since her accident. She was second on Quaikin Qurious and third on Tullabeg Chinzano in the BE100open class at Sapey, Herefordshire.

Phoebe is entered for the CCI2-S on Clotaire De Ferival and the CCI3-S on Pica D’Or at Cornbury House International on 8 September.

“It feels really good to be back,” she said. “I’m working really hard at the gym to make sure I’m as strong as I can be. I’ve got a couple more events planned for the rest of the year and I’m so grateful my owners kept supporting me while I was out.

“This weekend was a good confidence boost and I’m excited for the rest of the season.”

New rotationals falls research is a ‘vital’ safety step

Becky Murray — Fri, 10 Jul 2020 15:13:16 +0000

The project used a computer-generated forecasting model to gain a physics-based insight into rotational falls enabling the researchers to calculate the scenarios in which a horse would rotate or not. H&H speaks to those involved to find out more and garners reaction from the United States Eventing Association and the FEI to the findings...

New research into rotational falls in eventing has been called a ‘vital step’, as it is hoped findings could pave the way for new frangible device options.

The four-year project, carried out by University of Kentucky PhD student Shannon Wood under mechanical engineering professor Suzanne Smith, and funded by the United States Eventing Association (USEA), aimed to build on previous research on the use of frangibles in cross-country and to provide more information about rotational falls for device designers.

A statistical ensemble model (a computer-generated model similar to those used in weather forecasting) was used to create more than 10,000 scenarios using a variety of factors that could lead to a rotational fall, including different approach speeds and angles, fence types, and horse and rider positions, using measurements taken from more than 400 videos of horse and rider combinations competing or training.

Dr Smith, who has led research on frangibles since 2009, told H&H the aim was to gain a physics-based insight into rotational falls.

“The complexity of when a horse makes contact with a fence in the most dangerous way is such that it is really too difficult to have a ‘one-size fits all’ solution,” she said.

“To this point research hasn’t included the rider, and the rider has a significant contribution on what happens. You never know before it happens exactly where the rider is going to be so using a statistical ensemble looks at all the places they could be.”

Ms Wood told H&H the model allowed them to calculate the scenarios in which a horse would rotate or not.

“Most frangible devices have been created using a dummy or pendulum that simulates one situation, but in eventing there are different types of horses, distances, fence types and terrains. Horses can be jumping up or coming down to a fence, so that variety really affects the way the devices should activate,” she said.

“We created the critical contact situation where the horse was hitting the fence based on measurements from real horse and jumping positions. From those we are able to see whether these would rotate or not by calculating the overall probability of what’s happening at the fence.”

Ms Wood said the research shows there is a need for more different types of frangible devices.

“In FEI competition, course-designers and jump builders have MIM clips, the frangible pin and the reverse pin, but there are so many different possible scenarios,” she said. “The idea is to provide guidelines for designers to create more frangible options tailored to specific situations.

“Eventing is definitely moving in the right direction but it must be fine-tuned and that’s why adding more options for course-designers is so important.”

United States Eventing Association chief executive Rob Burke said the research was a “vital step” in connecting previous studies.

“With these models we can make more educated rules related to cross-country course and fence design. Through engineering and education we can further mitigate risk by implementing the findings into the field and in rider and horse training,” he said.

“We have amazing builders, designers, riders, coaches, and officials, and we aim to provide them with as many tools as possible to reduce risk. This research will help us to that end and it also provides direction and focus for the future. Reducing risk in eventing is, and will be, an ongoing effort, but through research such as this we are hopeful that risk will be continually lessened.”

A spokesman for the FEI, which announced a new frangible standard for January 2021 with regard to specific energies at which rails must activate and changes to testing (news 7 May), said the FEI risk management steering group welcomes Ms Wood’s study.

“Frangible devices are one of the important protective measures developed to reduce horse falls, particularly rotational, consequently, FEI-approved frangible devices have been compulsory on the defined fences where they can be fitted in four- and five-star competitions in 2020 and across all FEI competition levels as of 2021,” he said.

“The goal of the FEI is to encourage inventors to be creative, develop and test using this new standard. The feedback has been very positive, and we look forward to many more new and different concepts in the near future.”

The spokesman added that several manufacturers are working on having current and new devices tested to meet the new standard.

“The FEI looks forward to reviewing this new research from Kentucky and will include it in the ongoing efforts to keep learning and improving safety,” he said.

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Mother’s body protector warning after teenage rider suffers crush injuries in rotational fall

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 07 Mar 2020 07:06:33 +0000

The mother of a teenager who suffered serious crush injuries in a rotational fall is calling for body protectors to be mandatory in showjumping.

Danni Thomas, 14, usually wears her body protector but forgot to take it with her to a Pony Club winter league showjumping event last November.

Her mother Gail had taken Danni’s brother to a motocross event so was not there when 18-year-old Ernie stumbled after a jump and fell.

“He’s a phenomenal pony; an absolute saint, but he just tripped and landed on her,” Gail told H&H.

“People at the show were very good, they called an ambulance, and called me – I’ve never driven so fast in my life – and I got to Alder Hey hospital just as the air ambulance did.”

As Danni is young, her ribs are more flexible and had not broken, but her heart and lungs had been badly damaged – pictures of the fall show Ernie landed mainly on the left side of her chest. Having been treated by paramedics at the show centre, she was kept on a ventilator for a week, and in hospital three days more.

Danni is now back at school and on the way to a full recovery but Gail said she has scar tissue in her lungs, and will always have to be aware that her lung capacity has changed.

“The consultant said a body protector wouldn’t necessarily have saved her, but the damage could have been limited,” Gail said. “He asked why they weren’t compulsory, and I thought ‘good question’.

“She’d gone to the show with a very good friend, who doesn’t know I insist on a body protector – Danni’s old enough to know what’s right – and she was rushing around to get ready, and just forgot it.”

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Ernie is also recovering, but Gail said he will have a quieter life now, while Danni has returned to riding on a younger pony.

“This was just a tiny stumble on a sweetheart of a pony,” Gail said. “It’s not something you’d ever think about but my friend who saw the pictures said it frightened the life out of her and her son always wears a body protector now.

“They’re compulsory for cross-country but not showjumping, which seems a bit daft.”

Pony Club interim chief executive Marcus Capel said: “The Pony Club takes the safety of its members and the welfare of their ponies very seriously. We seek advice from national governing bodies (British Showjumping, British Eventing, British Dressage etc) and align our rules with theirs where possible and appropriate. Our sports committees meet regularly to review the sport’s rules and discuss the rationale behind any suggested changes and the wider consequences and impact of these.

“I appreciate that this incident was an unfortunate accident and am pleased to hear that the member in question is on the mend and wish her well.”

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Helmet ‘saves young rider from breaking her neck’ in rotational fall

Eleanor Jones — Thu, 10 Oct 2019 12:50:42 +0000

The mother of a girl who doctors thought could have broken her neck in a rotational fall were it not for her helmet is urging others to put safety before everything.

Robyn Byrne and her pony Cracker fell while jumping an oxer at a Forces Equine show at Arena UK on Sunday (6 October).

Mum Nikki Byrne told H&H the combination appeared to miss the correct stride.

“He hit the back rail of the oxer and did a full rotational fall,” she said.

“She flipped and her head hit the ground but her helmet took all the impact.”

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Nikki said medics were on hand instantly and Robyn was taken to hospital, where she had to have stiches inside her mouth but otherwise escaped injury. Cracker, a 16-year-old Welsh section D, has a sore shoulder, and has undergone treatment and “pampering” but was otherwise uninjured.

Nikki said she had thought the Samshield hat, which she bought for Robyn for her birthday this year, was expensive – but is glad she paid the price.

“From what the doctor said, the hat saved her from breaking her neck,” Nikki said.

“There’s a lot of talk about how much hats cost but to me, safety is paramount.

“She was jumping 90cm so she must have been about six feet in the air when they fell and the hat’s taken all that impact, and the external structure of it hasn’t broken at all.”

Nikki had paid extra to have the hat personalised for Robyn but she said Samshield hopes to be able to transfer the “bling” to another hat, so she will only have to pay for a new helmet itself.

She added that they had forgotten to take Robyn’s body protector to the show so she was not wearing it when she fell.

“That was a big lesson learned – if we forget it again, she’s not jumping, simple as that,” Nikki said. “It’s just not worth it.

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“They’d been smashing it all summer – she won at Trailblazers and the British Riding Club championships – then this happened at her last event before Cracker has a rest.

“But she walked away. When my parents heard what I’d spent on the hat, they said ‘how much?’, but they’ve since said they totally understand. It was worth every penny.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Rider who suffered severe injuries in rotational fall raises funds for air ambulance

Becky Murray — Sat, 22 Sep 2018 08:09:47 +0000

A rider who was told she might not walk again after her horse fell on top of her is raising awareness and funds for the air ambulance service that came to her aid.

Jo Dunn, 32, from Hampshire, had a rotational fall on her 17-year-old cob Maggie during an arena cross-country lesson in February 2017.

Jo told H&H: “We were preparing for a Hickstead arena event in the April and I had planned to sell Maggie afterwards so she could have a quieter life. Maggie was jumping really well but we fell at an 80cm jump. The jump got caught between her legs, which caused Maggie to fall and she landed on top of me.

“An ambulance first responder came really quick, followed by a land ambulance and an air ambulance. They wanted to take me by air but [the helicopter] had to land three fields away because of the horses that were in the fields and they would have had to carry me over gates and ditches, so they had to take me in the land ambulance with the doctor from the air ambulance in attendance.

“I had damage to my back, a head injury and a dislocated elbow. Originally the doctors thought I was going be paralysed or have brain damage but as the hours went on the prognosis got better and better.”

Jo spent the next 11 days in hospital and three months recovering at her parents’ house.

“My helmet saved my life,” said Jo. “I think landing on a soft sand and fibre arena helped – if it had been hard ground, it probably would have been a different outcome.

“It was in doubt if I would ride again, I was devastated. Two discs in my back fully ruptured so I have three vertebrae that sit on top of each other, and they thought they may have to operate and put rods into my back, if they had done that I probably wouldn’t have ridden again.

“I’m only a hobby rider but it is a huge part of my life. I’ve got ADHD and I find riding calms me and helps me focus so it’s not just my physical health, it has a huge impact on my mental health.”

After the accident Jo had physio three times a week until September 2017.

“I was told I would only get 40% movement back in my elbow, but I had a very good team of physios and I did my exercises religiously and I’ve been very lucky to get more movement back,” she said.

“I had a sit on a friend’s pony seven weeks after the accident and fully returned to riding after 11 weeks. I don’t remember the accident, or the days beforehand because my head injury was quite significant,” she said. “I just think you can’t be scared of something you don’t remember. Horses have been such a vital part of my recovery for both my physical and mental health; if that wasn’t in my life my life would be very different. I’m not prepared to let that go.”

Jo brought Maggie back to full fitness and sold her to a Pony Club home and now has a 16.2hh gelding, Chuck, on loan.

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This year Jo has started fundraising for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance, running three marathons and a 30-mile ultra-marathon with another marathon and ultra-marathon planned before the end of the year.

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/jo-dunn7

“The doctors had said they weren’t sure I would walk again, let alone run. I want to raise awareness that the air ambulance is not government funded and they are such a vital service, especially for the equine community,” said Jo.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

‘A walking miracle’: eventer in horror fall makes competition comeback

Rachael Turner — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 16:10:33 +0000

A former three-star event rider has returned to competition almost three years after a life-changing cross-country accident.

Lincolnshire-based Katy Williams had a rotational fall at Allerton Park on 20 September, 2014.

The horse she had been riding, Ted Dexter, fell after hitting the first element of a rail-ditch-rail combination in the intermediate novice.

“I landed face down and he landed on top of me,” Katy told H&H. “I suffered multiple facial fractures, broke my jaw, the base of my neck, seven ribs and my pelvis.”

Katy was taken to Leeds General Infirmary by road ambulance where she was put into an induced coma.

She had an 11-hour operation to rebuild her face, which was so unrecognisable her father had to give surgeons a photo of her to work from.

Katy also had an operation on her pelvis, which is now held together with metal plates and screws, and wore a neck brace for three months.

“Due to my facial injuries I was on breathing support while in high dependency and intensive care, it was a scary moment when they took that away,” she said.

“I was fed through a tube for seven weeks, but determination to give eating a go and an extremely sore throat saw the disappearance of that.

“When I can home I was in a wheelchair and it soon became apparent that my coordination and sensations were amiss. This was more apparent as I began to bear weight.

“My balance was all over the place, I’d lost the hearing completely in my left ear, which will never come back, and suffered some nerve damage.

“My left eye wasn’t closing causing blurring to my vision, which made everything I was already suffering even harder to deal with. My eye shuts now, but doesn’t lubricate itself so I have to put drops in every hour and the vision is still very poor.”

‘A walking miracle’

Katy has been told her injuries could have been even more serious if she hadn’t been wearing adequate safety equipment.

“The doctors have stressed that without the protection I was wearing the outcome may have been very different — they think I’m a walking miracle as it is,” she said.

“I had a Rodney Powell body protector on with a Point 2 air jacket over the top, which saved my vital organs. I also had a new Gatehouse skull cap on, which did a remarkable job of preventing any head or skull injuries.”

Continued below…

(Image credit: John Henderson)

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Katy had been working full time as a professional rider before the accident and had competed up to three-star, but the fall forced her to give up this career.

“The horses I rode were sent home to their owners, the yard I rented was emptied and the only thing I had left was my beloved Weston who had put me on the international circuit, but he was soon to be sold which hurt more than the fall itself,” she said.

“Recovery has been a long process and I’m still trying to improve — not just physically but mentally also, my life changed in an instant that day.”

Back in the saddle

Despite the ordeal, Katy returned to the saddle at the beginning of last year.

“I bought a lovely safe cob type to get going on again,” she said.

“I gained balance over a few months and had my first jump on him — he was just what I needed at the time and he then went on to a lovely home.”

Last summer Katy bought Koko (pictured top), a 16.3hh seven-year-old Belgian warmblood.

“She was bought to sell, but there was just something about her I loved and I started riding her,” said Katy.

“We had a couple of successful dressage outings last year, then a few showjumping outings through the winter followed by some cross-country schooling earlier this year.

“She’s a very careful horse, which means she can be rather extravagant over fences she’s not seen before! This took a toll on my balance to begin with, but we’re getting it together much better now.

“She’s extremely talented, although we are taking each day as it comes to keep us both confident. I am very excited about her future.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

In 2015 Katy also gave birth to her daughter, Ellen, who is already horse mad and enjoys riding her pony Mickey (pictured).

“Life couldn’t be much different,” added Katy, who does some coaching around looking after Ellen. “I’ve gone from a full time professional rider competing on senior teams and experiencing the best days ever, to experiencing the worst days of my life, to being a mum!

“Ellen will be two in October, she gives me so much pleasure and already has the riding bug.

“I can’t see myself going back into horses full-time, but will always have a four-legged friend in my life — it’s my guilty pleasure.”

Rider critical but stable in hospital after rotational fall out hunting

Tricia Johnson — Mon, 30 Jan 2017 12:44:10 +0000

Essex-based hunting and showing enthusiast Rob Walker, 49, is in a critical but stable condition in the Royal London Hospital after sustaining serious spinal injuries in a rotational fall while out hunting.

The accident happened on Wednesday (18 January) when the horse he was riding – the former champion working hunter, Orbital – hit concealed wire in the top part of a hedge, somersaulted and landed heavily on Rob.

The Herts and Essex air ambulance was quickly on the scene and airlifted Rob to hospital, where he was temporarily placed in an induced coma. The horse was uninjured.

Originally from Worcestershire, Rob is also a popular figure on the showing circuit. He bred and formerly owned the successful hunter Bournebrook Golden Law, still the only horse to have won the ladies class at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) three times, standing supreme there in 2005.

Latterly, with his fiancée Olivia Greig and her daughters, Harriet and Grace Chittenden, Rob has concentrated on hunting and often acts as amateur whip to the Essex Hunt. He is also a regular with the Essex Farmers and Union Hunt, and has taken part in inter-hunt team relay competitions.

Rob Walker out hunting with his fiancée Olivia Greig’s daughters Harriet and Grace Chittenden (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“The love and support for Rob have been tremendous,” said Olivia. “We are both so very grateful for all the good wishes and practical help we have received.

“This journey will not be easy, but we will get through it.”

A justgiving page – with a “target” of £2,000 – set up by family friend Clare Tredgett to help Olivia with immediate costs and day-to-day expenses raised more than £8,100 in the first nine days.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Clare for setting up the fund – it means we can concentrate on Rob getting better and having him home with us,” added Olivia. “I am also extremely grateful to the air ambulance – if it hadn’t arrived when it did, I doubt Rob would still be alive.”

Young eventer killed in rotational fall

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 10 Sep 2016 22:22:54 +0000

A young international event rider suffered a fatal accident while competing at the Ratomka Horse Trials today (10 September).

Russian Nikita Sotskov and his horse Larry Carlton had a rotational fall at the second-last cross-country fence of the CIC3* course in Minsk, Belarus.

The FEI said medics were on the scene immediately after the accident, “but sadly the rider could not be saved”.

Larry Carlton suffered a minor leg injury.

“It is with a very heavy heart that we confirm the devastating loss of one of our community in this tragic accident at Ratomka today”, said FEI secretary general Sabrina Ibáñez.

“Nikita Sotskov was one of Russia’s promising young riders and this news will have a profound effect on all those involved in the sport.

“On behalf of the FEI and the global eventing community, I extend our sincere condolences to Nikita Sotskov’s family and friends in the sport, and to the Russian and Belarusian equestrian federations.”

Nikita, 21, had represented Russia at two European championships, as a junior and a young rider, and was experienced at 2* level. Today was his first 3* competition.

The official FEI statement on the incident read: “Safety in equestrian sport is a top priority for the FEI and all national federations, and the FEI is working continuously to make the sport as safe as possible for all athletes, both human and equine. The circumstances of today’s accident will be fully reviewed.

“David O’Connor (USA) has been nominated to chair the FEI risk management working group which will focus on coordinating initiatives on a global basis, including technology developments, data and statistics, as well as further educational outreach for athletes, course designers, coaches and technical delegates.

“The working group’s remit is to look at all options to minimise risk factors and is in addition to the FEI’s continual work focused on improving safety in the sport.”

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Ground jury president Natallia Yuranava said that at all FEI events, “maximum consideration” is given to the safety and welfare of horses and riders.

He added: “On behalf of the whole sport I would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Nikita Sotskov’s family.”

The Belarus equestrian federation also expressed “deepest condolence” to Nikita’s family.

Nikita is the fourth rider to have died as the result of a cross-country fall in the last six months.

Olivia Inglis, 17, died from injuries she sustained in a fall in a national two-star competition at Scone Horse Trials, Australia, on 6 March. Caitlyn Fischer, 19, suffered fatal injuries in the one-star at the Sydney International Horse Trials on 30 April.

Philippa Humphreys, 33, died as a result of injuries sustained in a fall on the CCI3* cross-country course at the Jersey Fresh International Three-Day Event in New Jersey, United States, on 14 May.

Fatal eventing accident confirmed as rotational fall

Carol Phillips — Wed, 09 Mar 2016 11:16:47 +0000

The death of Olivia Inglis, the 17-year-old rider who was killed while taking part in the CNC2* competition at Scone Horse Trials in Australia on Sunday 6 March, has been confirmed as being the result of a rotational fall.

Equestrian Australia told Horse & Hound that Olivia’s ride Coriolanus (pictured above competing at Wallaby Hill Equestrian Extravaganza in February 2016) left a leg at the B element of the eighth fence on the CNC2* course, which was a four-stride distance from a vertical to an oxer. The 11-year-old throughbred chestnut gelding rotated over the fence. Olivia’s life could not be saved despite the efforts of the medical team.

Judy Fasher of Equestrian Australia said: “Olivia was a great girl who was more than qualified to compete at this level. She had completed the CNC2* at the Sydney One Day Event with a clear cross-country round just three weeks ago.”

In a statement released on the website of the Inglis family’s bloodstock operation, Olivia’s parents Arthur and Charlotte said: “We have been overwhelmed by the kindness and sympathy from family and friends throughout the school, equestrian and thoroughbred communities.

“We are so proud of Olivia and the beautiful young woman she was in every way. We are blessed to have had the opportunity to share our passion for horses with our children. This has led us on a great journey where we have been able to spend countless happy moments and special family times. So much to celebrate and a life so joyous and well lived.”

Continued below…

Teenager killed in eventing accident in Australia

Riders pay tribute to young eventer in viral #rideforolivia campaign

Fence type: not a major factor in rotational falls

While initial reports suggested that the family’s horse Coriolanus had suffered only minor injuries in the fall, further investigations by the Scone Equine Hospital team revealed that he was suffering from a displaced fracture in his neck. As a result he has been put down.

The Inglis statement described him as “a talented competitor and loved family member [who] will be sadly missed”.

The funeral service and celebration of Olivia’s life will be held at 11.30am on Monday 14 March at St Judes, Avoca Street Randwick, Sydney.

Equestrians around the world have joined together to show their respect by posting pictures of themselves with their horses on social media alongside the hashtag #RideForOlivia.

Fence type: not a major factor in rotational falls

Pippa Cuckson — Mon, 06 Jul 2015 06:25:04 +0000

Rider and horse qualifications are now under scrutiny in the second phase of a far-reaching audit into eventing commissioned by the FEI, with an emphasis on factors contributing to rotational falls.

The first phase looked at statistics to isolate the most troublesome fence types, concluding that fence-related factors accounted for less than 10% variability.

Charles Barnett, who is conducting the audit, said: “The other 90% is therefore due to other factors, so fence modifications may reduce falls — but we need to know more about the other 90%.”

Mr Barnett is a former chief executive of Aintree and Ascot racecourses and was commissioned to lead the study last year by former FEI president Princess Haya.

He presented initial findings to the FEI Sports Forum in April.

“We wanted scientific evidence to support what the sport already suspects or knows,” he said.

The details will not be published until the study is complete in November.

He added that statistics show that fence types most associated with falls are corners, square spreads, upright post-and-rails, jumps into and out of water, downhill fences, and combinations and approaches ridden either too fast or too slow.

“It is the water rather than the combination aspect that is significant,” he added. “A corner to water with a parallel out has accounted for three rotational falls.”

Mr Barnett’s appointment was aimed at utilising the expertise of a horse industry professional able to bring a fresh eye to eventing — he hunts ex-racehorses, and oversaw the various changes to mitigate risk in the Grand National.

He visited Badminton last month for the first time in decades, and will attend the Pan Am Games and European events.

Separately, the FEI has confirmed that Mr Barnett had no input into controversial proposals to change the Olympic eventing format, for which he has been partially blamed on social media.

Event rider was wearing substandard body protector when he died, reveals inquest

Catherine Austen — Wed, 13 May 2015 10:22:31 +0000

An inquest into the death of Jordan McDonald at Nunney Horse Trials last year has reported that his body protector did not meet British Eventing safety standards.

The 30-year-old Canadian rider (pictured above riding Prince Mayo at Aston Le Walls) was competing Only Me in a novice section at Nunney in Somerset on 14 June, 2014. The pair had a rotational fall at fence 7a on the cross-country course and Jordan suffered “fatal chest injuries”, the inquest found.

When returning a verdict of accidental death, Tim Hayden, assistant coroner for East Somerset, said: “The horse struck the jump with its front legs and slowly rotated across the jump and on to the other side, throwing its rider, Jordan McDonald, to the ground and landing full square on top of him.

“There were multiple fractures on each side of the ribcage, four on one side and five on the other and a laceration of the lung which made the process of resuscitation very difficult and subsequently impossible.”

Accident and emergency consultant Dr Michael Whitlock, who was on duty at the event, said that Jordan’s body protector – which was from Canada – would not have met British Eventing safety standards, set in 2000. He was not also wearing an air jacket, which are optional under British Eventing rules.

“The horse and the saddle and stirrups fell on the rider, with the saddle causing most of the damage,” he said.

“The area where the lung was damaged probably had no protection. It is difficult to predict the severity of the injuries if a Class Three body protector would have been worn.

“It is possible that the laceration to the lung could have been avoided, which would have given the doctors more chance of saving his life.”

The coroner said: “Given the evidence I have heard about the importance of back protectors in the possibility of a death not being a death, I hope that British Eventing will look again at that section of the rules.”

British Eventing has responded with a statement saying: “Following the outcome of yesterday’s inquest, BE would like to confirm that they are reviewing the current rules contained within the Members’ Handbook.”

Police investigate death of Italian event rider

Amy Mathieson — Fri, 24 Apr 2015 12:55:56 +0000

A police investigation into the death of Italian event rider Sabrina Manganaro is ongoing.

The eventing community was in shock earlier this month after Sabrina was killed in a fall at a national event.

She was competing in a pre-novice section of a national event in Cuceglio, Italy, on 12 April.

“Her horse Fante Di Mezzograno fell at fence 13 at 10.50am, causing the immediate death,” said the Italian Equestrian Federation (FISE).

The 25-year-old rider was attended to by doctors at the event, but could not be saved. The horse was uninjured. Reports suggest her death might be the result of a rotational fall.

An FISE spokesman told H&H that said an investigation into her death was ongoing. He added that a police inquiry is “standard procedure for an accident of this type in Italy”.

“The magistrate opens an official inquiry and all people who are deemed directly involved are put under investigation,” he said.

The course-designer, technical delegate and event director are all under investigation.

In Britain, similar protocol does not apply.

“We cannot comment on what may or may not be happening in other nations nor would we because it would be inappropriate,” said British Eventing’s Mike Etherington-Smith.

“What we can say is that the world in which course-designers work is one that is not easy.

“The advent of rider reps several years ago was formalising the relationship between officials and riders and this relationship is very good. Riders can at any time approach officials with concerns that they may have about a fence, which is a positive development.

“We are all in the sport because we enjoy it, we know what the risks are and have to accept them whatever our role.”

Sabrina’s death was the second in two months, after Francisco Seabra was killed at an event in Spain in February.

Rider killed in rotational fall at Luhmühlen

Carol Phillips — Sat, 14 Jun 2014 15:24:01 +0000

The eventing world is in a state of shock following the death of Germany’s Benjamin Winter at Luhmühlen Horse Trials earlier today.

Benjamin was on his 2nd ride in the CCI4*, Ispo, (pictured above competing at Houghton International in 2013) when they suffered a rotational fall at fence number 20, a table. The 10-year-old gelding was not injured.

The German rider had already completed the course clear inside the time on his first ride, Wild Thing Z.

The event released the following statement: “It is with the deepest regret and sadness that we announce that Benjamin Winter (GER) suffered a fatal accident while competing at the CCI4* in Luhmühlen.

“On behalf of the whole sport, we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Benjamin’s family.

“At every FEI event, the maximum consideration is given to the safety and welfare of horses and competitors. The causes of this accident will be further investigated by all parties.”

Earlier in the day Tom Crisp’s ride, Liberal, collapsed and died after fence 7. It is thought he suffered an aortic rupture. Tom was not hurt in the fall and described the horse as “a great friend”.

In a devastating day for the sport, competition at Nunney International Horse Trials in Somerset was cancelled following an incident on the cross-country. More to follow.

Full report on the cross-country action from Luhmühlen to come.

Amateur rider killed in rotational fall

Martha Terry — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 13:00:47 +0000

An amateur rider has been killed in a rotational fall in Ireland.

Father-of-2 Cathal O’Malley, 45, was competing in a hunter trials in Tullamore, Co Offaly, on Sunday (13 April) when his horse somersaulted over a log and landed on him.

Order of Malta first aiders attended to him within a minute. He was taken to Tullamore’s Midland Regional Hospital 5mins away where he was pronounced dead.

Mr O’Malley, who ran a restaurant, is reported to have been an experienced rider who hunted regularly with the Galway Blazers. He had already taken part in an earlier class that day. More than 150 riders competed at the hunter trials on Sunday.

Colm O’Brennan, secretary of the Brosna Foxhounds that ran the event, told local papers that the simple log fence had been there for more than a decade, and that the horse appeared to “clip it” before somersaulting.

Mr O’Malley leaves a wife, Fiona King, and two sons, Darragh, 4, and 2-week-old Gavan.

A spokesperson for Horse Sport Ireland said: “This was a terrible tragedy to happen at a hunter trials, and we extend our sincerest condolences to Cathal’s family and friends.”

New stable jockey for Tiny Clapham following tragic death of Tom Gadsby

Horse & Hound — Sat, 18 Jan 2014 13:00:46 +0000

Young New Zealand rider James Avery is to take up a position as Tiny Clapham’s (pictured) stable jockey for the 2014 season.

He succeeds the late Tom Gadsby, who suffered a fatal rotational fall at Somerford Park last season.

James, who is 21, has spent a year in the UK based with Kiwis Tim Price and Jonelle Richards at their yard near Marlborough, Wilts.

He will move to Tiny’s Cambridgeshire base in the next couple of weeks.

“I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to have worked with Tom,” Tiny told H&H.

“But this is a new year with a new start and I look forward to welcoming James to the team.”

This story first appeared in H&H in the 16 January 2014 issue.

Harry Meade leaves hospital after nasty fall

Sophia Heath — Tue, 03 Sep 2013 16:16:11 +0000

After more than a week in hospital following a rotational fall at Wellington Horse Trials on Monday 26 August, Harry Meade has been discharged.

Harry underwent 2 long periods of surgery at Basingstoke Hospital to reconstruct his elbows — which he broke and dislocated in the fall.

During the second operation Harry had 2 surgeons operating on his arms simultaneously.

A statement from Harry’s wife Rosie on his website said that he has been allowed to leave hospital and is recuperating at her parent’s house near Northleach, Glos.

“It’s a big step when he’s been lying on his back with his arms suspended for the past week and is still so uncomfortable and immobile,” Rosie said.

“He now has a lighter weight cast on his right arm and a brace on his left arm and the surgeon seems happy with the way the wounds from the operations are healing.

“He is still in good spirits and is determined to be back as close to normality as soon as possible.”

Harry kept himself entertained in hospital by watching the European Eventing Championships and with visits from friends including Olympic gold medallist Laura Tomlinson and eventer Emily Baldwin.

“We are very grateful for the wonderful treatment he received at Basingstoke hospital and particularly to the surgeons, Jonathon Hobby and Nigel Rossiter, as well the World Class programme who have also been extremely helpful with medical advice,” Rosie added.

Fatal rotational fall prompts calls for ‘rethink’ on fence design

Flora Watkins — Tue, 03 Sep 2013 12:00:10 +0000

The chairman of Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) has called for a “fundamental rethink” on course design, following the death of Tom Gadsby at Somerford Park.

Patrick Wall said Tom’s death in the CIC* again highlighted the danger of certain types of falls.

The 26-year-old New Zealander was killed when his horse rotated over fence 4B, a log pile with a filled-in top, and landed on him.

Last month, Laura Collett suffered a crashing rotational fall in an intermediate section at Tweseldown (8 July) when her mare chested a filled-in corner.

“Knockable elements, frangible pins and collapse-on-impact materials in fence construction are improvements, but more can be done,” said Mr Wall.

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“It is not acceptable that people are killed participating in the sport they love when all preventative initiatives have not been exhausted.”

The use of a “toeboard” — as seen in steeplechasing fences — could give a better groundline, it has been suggested (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Mr Wall added that the addition of an “apron” or toeboard to give the horse a ground line — as seen on steeplechasing fences — was one “simple initiative” that could reduce the risk of rotational falls.

This suggestion was welcomed by four-star event rider Alice Dunsdon, who observed several horses hitting the same fence as Laura Collett’s at Tweseldown.

“It is so important to have a ground line, especially on the solid, boxy fences,” Alice told H&H.

“I think you can get away without a ground line at a rounded fence, whereas the one Laura fell at was a very upright corner.

“They [upright fences] have become more popular in the past 10 years and I don’t think they do the horse or rider any good,” she added.

Some riders say upright, boxy fences, like this corner, need a better groundline (Image credit: creditUnknown)

British Eventing (BE) chief executive Mike Etherington-Smith agreed that it was “essential” to “continue to explore all avenues that could lead to a safer sport”.

He said BE would be pleased to welcome HSI to share its suggestions, “as we welcome ideas from all quarters”.

His words were echoed by Giuseppe Della Chiesa, chairman of the FEI eventing committee and the new course designer at Badminton. Mr Della Chiesa stressed that, while eventing could never be a “zero risk” sport, the FEI was committed to exploring ways of further improving safety.

The statistical risk of suffering death or serious injury had “decreased significantly” in the past 10 years, he added.

Party to celebrate the life of the late eventer, Tom Gadsby

Flora Watkins — Wed, 28 Aug 2013 08:00:23 +0000

The life of Tom Gadsby, the young event rider killed in a rotational fall on 18 August, is to be celebrated with a special party next month.

Tom died following a fall in the CIC* at Somerford Park Horse Trials.

He will be buried in his native New Zealand, but former Team GBR rider Tiny Clapham — who employed Tom as her stable jockey — wanted a way for his friends and the eventing community in the UK to say goodbye.

Tiny initially considered organising a memorial service, but opted for a party instead.

“He was 26 years of age; a memorial doesn’t seem to be appropriate,” she told H&H.

“Tom was a free spirit, so it is very fitting — and more in keeping with the age group — that we should celebrate his life with a party,” she added.

The venue is Mill Hill Field, Abbots Ripton, near Huntingdon, Cambs — where the Secret Garden Party festival is held and Tiny’s yard is based.

Tom went to the festival last month and had loved it, she said.

“There is a stage and ampitheatre and we can all share our personal thoughts and poems,” added Tiny.

Donations in Tom’s memory will be taken on the day for a chosen charity that will be decided in due course.

The party is on Tuesday, 3 September from 4pm onwards. Please email Tiny and her team so they have an idea of numbers: tomthegreatgadsby@gmail.com by 30 August

Harry Meade injured in rotational fall

Sophia Heath — Tue, 27 Aug 2013 13:00:15 +0000

Harry Meade is recovering in hospital after a rotational fall in the advanced section at Wellington Horse Trials yesterday (Monday 26 August).

A tweet from his account last night confirmed that he had injured both of his elbows in the fall at the Hampshire event.

The tweet read: “Harry had a rotational fall in the Adv[anced] at Wellington today and has broken and dislocated both elbows. He is good hands at Basingstoke hosp[ital].”

A further tweet said: “Harry’s just come round from first of a number of operations. Thankfully no head injuries. Big thanks to everyone for their v[ery] kind messages.”

Harry with his wife Rosie (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Harry was riding Shannondale Santiago, who won an open intermediate section at Bicton Arena last week (17 August). This was the gelding’s first advanced.

Harry’s fall comes just over a week after 26-year-old Tom Gadsby was fatally injured in a rotational fall on the cross-country course at Somerford Park Horse Trials (Sunday 18 August).

Laura Collett also suffered serious crush injuries — including lung and liver damage — in a rotational fall at Tweseldown last month (8 July). She made a winning return to eventing at Wellington this weekend taking an open intermediate section on Noble Bestman.

Tributes paid to event rider Tom Gadsby killed at Somerford Park

Flora Watkins — Tue, 20 Aug 2013 14:00:53 +0000

The mother of Tom Gadsby — the young New Zealander who died in a rotational fall on Sunday (18 August) — has spoken of her pride at watching him compete just days earlier.

Louise Gadsby had spent a week with Tom shortly before he was killed, visiting London and Paris.

She told a local newspaper in New Zealand: “It was a special time.

“I just thank God that I went over there and we had that time together.”

Mrs Gadsby was flying home when the accident happened. She is returning to England with other family members, to collect Tom’s body.

She added: “Tom was becoming really well-known really quickly and I just felt at last he’s got the chance to be where he wants to go.

“It’s been his passion since he was a very little boy. He’d be 5 years old, out in the dark, brushing and plaiting and packing up all the gear.”

Tom, 26, died shortly after his horse hit fence 4B in the CIC* at the Cheshire event. His mount, a 7-year-old coloured gelding called The Drover, was unhurt.

Tom had been working as stable jockey to former Team GBR rider, Diana “Tiny” Clapham at her Eventers International business in Huntingdon, Cambs, since May.

A statement on the Eventers International Facebook page read: “Words cannot express how we feel after the tragic loss of Tom.

“He was without doubt a truly exceptional horseman, a thoughtful and kind person with a flamboyant personality. Tom was part of our family.

“Tom was a smart, intelligent man with a great love of horses, dogs and people.

“There is a massive void at Eventers without Tom. Thinking of you always. RIP, Tiny, Sarah, Meghan, Annabelle and James.”

Laura Collett gets the all clear from doctors

Amy Mathieson — Fri, 16 Aug 2013 15:45:05 +0000

Eventer Laura Collett will be back competing next weekend, after being given the all clear by doctors.

“It’s very exciting,” she told H&H. “I’m going to do some cross-country schooling with Yogi [Breisner, British eventing team trainer] next week, and then at the weekend I’m going to Wellington.”

Laura said she was taking 3 horses — Noble Bestman, Allora and Obos Cooley to the Hampshire event.

“I’m spreading them out over a couple of days, so I’ll see how I feel, but fingers crossed I’ll be back to normal.”

The event rider sustained serious crush injuries — including lung and liver damage — in a rotational fall at Tweseldown last month (8 July).

She has since been recovering with physio at Oaksey House, the Injured Jockeys Fund rehabilitation centre in Lambourn, Berks, and has been back home riding her horses again.

“I went to the hospital yesterday (Thursday 15 August) and the doctors said it all looked good and were pleased with my progress. I’ve been very lucky. I can’t wait to get on and compete again, hopefully once the first event’s out the way I can get back to normal.”

Last week (8 August) she jumped Noble Bestman for the first time since her fall, and today (Friday 16 August) she took Rayef out for a gallop.

“It was really cool to be back on Rayef,” she added. “We went galloping, it was his first time for a while too, and we had a lot of fun. He was pretty excited!”

Yogi added: “It’s wonderful that Laura has made such a quick and great recovery. It’s thanks to the fantastic care she received by the medics at the competition, Southampton General hospital, Oaksey House rehabilitation centre and the World Class medical staff.

“I know Laura and her family are very grateful. Laura can’t wait to get back in action again.”

Laura Collett gets go ahead to leave hospital

Amy Mathieson — Wed, 17 Jul 2013 14:33:42 +0000

Event rider Laura Collett is “in good spirits” as she prepares to leave hospital after her serious rotational fall last week (Monday 8 July).

“She’s really cheerful,” Laura’s head girl Felicity Roberts told H&H.

“She’s been up and walking and eating normal food again, she’s doing so well. It’s been a hard week and we’re all so pleased.”

Laura tweeted today:

HAPPY DAYS….. I’m being let out of this hospital today…. Sooooooo excited!! #happy— Laura Collett (@CollettEventing) July 17, 2013

The 23-year-old was riding the seven-year-old mare Tis A Beauty, who she has recently taken over from Oliver Townend, in an intermediate section at Tweseldown when they fell at fence 18, a filled-in corner.

Laura suffered serious crush injuries including broken ribs and collapsed lung. She was placed under sedation for several days, to help heal damage to her lungs. On Sunday (14 July) she was moved out of intensive care.

Felicity added that Laura will either be going home, or to Oaksey House in Lambourn — the centre for rehabilitating jockeys — but that the hospital haven’t confirmed which yet.

“Laura is making very good progress,” added British evening team manager Yogi Breisner.

“She is already planning her return to riding. It’s too early days to say when just yet, but with the support of the World Class Programme and its medical staff she will be back riding as soon as possible.”

Felicity added: “Laura’s very keen to get back into it, she thinks she’s off to Gatcombe! But it’s good for her to have a focus.”

Laura Collett is ‘very ill, but not critical’

Flora Watkins — Tue, 09 Jul 2013 15:13:04 +0000

Laura Collett — who suffered a rotational fall at Tweseldown yesterday (8 July) — is “very ill, but not critical,” according to British eventing team manager, Yogi Breisner.

Yogi told H&H the Membury-based rider was “stable” but is still in intensive care.

“She is under sedation and will remain so for the next 24-28hr, so there will unlikely be any changes for a while,” he said. “She has a punctured lung, so she needs to be under sedation to help with her breathing.

“But all her head and brain scans seem to be positive so far, so we are optimistic about that.

“She also has some fractures, but they are the least of the worries.”

Laura, 23, was competing in an intermediate section on the seven-year-old mare Tis A Beauty (not pictured), when they had a rotational fall at fence 18. The mare was unharmed.

She was conscious when taken to hospital but placed in an induced coma there.

This morning, her family said that she had been “woken up briefly and responded well to family.”

The latest news on Laura’s website says: “As a result of the damage to Laura’s lungs it has been decided to give her longer under sedation and it is anticipated waking her tomorrow. Family and friends are very grateful for messages of support, but sadly we won’t be able to answer them all.”

Event rider breaks back in rotational fall

Flora Watkins — Thu, 23 May 2013 15:09:40 +0000

Former British junior team eventer Hayley Rose, 29, is recovering in hospital, after suffering multiple injuries — including a broken back — in a fall at Rockingham Horse Trials (17-19 May).

Hayley (pictured riding Ardcavan Cavalier at Aston-le-Walls) was having her first run of the season in a novice section on 17 May. Her mount, an 11-year-old gelding called Eden, had a rotational fall at fence 11 on the cross-country course and rolled on her. She was airlifted to hospital in Coventry.

Hayley suffered five broken ribs, three fractures to her pelvis and cracked a verterbra in her lower back. Eden was not injured.

Surgeons operated on 21 May to put a plate and screws in her pelvis and insert a chest drain.

Hayley tweeted to friends that she was “doing well”.

“Definitely feeling better after my operation,” she tweeted yesterday (22 May). “Just got to keep looking forwards. The hospital has been amazing.”

In a statement, British Eventing (BE) confirmed that Hayley was “in good spirits and… recovering in hospital”.

Hayley rode for the British junior team at the 2003 European Championships in Germany. She finished best of the Brits — in sixth position — on Killmallock Dandy.

Lucinda Fredericks in hospital after rotational cross-country fall

Horse & Hound — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:33:37 +0000

Lucinda Fredericks is in Frimley Park Hospital, Surrey, following a rotational fall from Rovello II in the open novice at Tweseldown last Friday (8 March).

The Australian rider, 45, has broken four ribs on her left side and her collarbone.

Lucinda will be assessed by specialists today to decide whether she requires surgery on her collarbone. She is expecting to remain in hospital until Thursday.

Her marketing and communications officer Emma Charlton said: “She is in quite a bit of pain at the present time, but feels incredibly lucky. She is extremely grateful for all the good wishes and support from friends, owners, staff and fans, and is comforted to know that so many people care.”

Her daughter, Ellie (pictured), visited her yesterday to celebrate Mother’s Day.

Lucinda’s senior groom, Emily Young-Jamieson, will continue to work the horses in their normal routine under Lucinda’s guidance while she recovers.

Rovello was unhurt in the incident. The pair finished second at Houghton CCI* last season.

Emma encouraged fans to send messages on facebook or twitter: www.facebook.com/LucindaFredericksTF or www.twitter.com/LucindaFred

Bruno Bouvier killed in cross-country fall at Barroca D’Alva

Carol Phillips — Sat, 02 Mar 2013 18:53:55 +0000

French international event rider Bruno Bouvier was killed in a fall on the cross-country phase of Barroca D’Alva horse trials in Portugal earlier today.

The 60-year-old event rider had a rotational fall at fence five, a triple brush, while riding the 10-year-old gelding Arcilloso III in the CIC** competition. Bruno suffered fatal injuries as a result, but his horse was not hurt.

Tributes have been flooding in from his fellow event riders on twitter.

Gemma Tattersall: “Totally gutted and sad to hear about Bruno Bouvier RIP you were such a great man. #terrible”

Ruth Edge: “R.I.P Bruno Bouvier such a sad loss of a great man.”

Andrew Heffernan: “Such sad news about Bruno Bouvier. A great guy who was a real character and will be sadly missed.”

Dan Jocelyn: “Extremely saddened to hear of the news of Bruno B today. Good friend, great rider, condolences to his family. Great ambassador for eventing.”

Barroca d’Alva event director Nicholas Melbourne Hart and president of the ground jury Jose Miguel Mexia de Almeida expressed their profund regret via a statement released by the FEI.

“On behalf of the whole sport, we would like to extend our deepest sympathy to Bruno Bouvier’s family and to all his friends in the equestrian world,” they said.

Bruno had competed at the highest level, including regularly travelling to the UK for Badminton, Blenheim and Burghley, during his career.

The FEI said a police inquiry had been launched into the accident.

Austrian eventer dies in rotational fall

Charlotte White — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 16:35:28 +0000

An Austrian event rider has died in a fall during a training session with her coach.

Irene Dempsey, aged 30, was cross-country schooling with her instructor Harald Siegl at the Theresian Military Academy in Wiener Neustadt when she fell from her horse, Last Girl Standing on 21 September.

They reportedly suffered a rotational fall and Mrs Dempsey broke her neck. The horse was uninjured.

The pair had competed at the same venue just 10 days before, at the Austrian National CIC** championships (9-11 September).

The Austrian Eventing Federation has set up a fund to support Mrs Dempsey’s seven-year-old daughter, whose father is also dead.

Showjumper breaks three vertebrae in ‘rotational fall’

Horse & Hound — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 17:57:29 +0000

A showjumper has broken his back in three places after falling at a senior show at Arena UK in Grantham, Lincs.

Adam Taylor was riding D Jingo S in the British novice class on Sunday, 25 July, when the horse suffered a rotational fall, landing on Mr Taylor.

Witnesses said the horse took off early and hit the top pole of the second fence, a vertical, and flipped.

A spokesman for Arena UK confirmed Mr Taylor broke three vertebrae and was attended by onsite paramedics before being taken to Lincoln Hospital.

He reportedly still has movement in his legs and arms, but as we went to press surgeons were waiting for the swelling to subside before operating. The horse was unhurt in the fall.

Amateur event rider killed in rotational fall at one-day event

Horse & Hound — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 16:03:49 +0000

A 48 year-old Belgian rider was killed in a rotational fall at the Zutendaal unaffiliated one-day event on Sunday.

Dirk Grouwels, who was described as “an experienced amateur”, was taking part in the cross-country phase of the 1m class when the accident happened at 11.30am.

“Mr Grouwels’ horse refused at a simple fence — the first part of a combination — the rider insisted and the horse somersaulted over the fence,” said Tony McPherson, International Equestrian Federation (FEI) safety officer for Belgium.

A doctor was standing by the fence and was at the scene immediately, but said Mr Grouwels was killed instantly.

The Zutendaal event is a well respected fixture on the Belgian eventing calendar and, though organised independently by the Belgian equivalent of the UK’s Rural Riders, it runs to affiliated rules.

Views sought for Eventing Ireland rider safety discussion

Horse & Hound — Tue, 26 May 2009 12:09:02 +0000

Eventing Ireland is inviting people to contribute ideas for a rider safety discussion at Tattersalls on Friday 29 May.

Eventing Ireland aims to provide a forum where a large rider grouping can take a more proactive approach to defining the riders’ role in solving the problem of rotational falls.

Specialist teams — made up predominantly of riders — will present researched on four different items:

• Potential impact of course design/building and rider interface with designer/builder in minimising risk

• The scope for rider responsibility, education and ethos to minimise risk

• The role of the horse and its training in minimising risk

• The role of legislation and the administrative bodies in minimising risk

The audience will then be able to discuss each issue — and the event recorded to allow for accurate analysis afterwards. The views of the riders will be shared with national federations and the International Equestrian Federation (FEI).

Input for the agenda (details on www.eventingireland.com) is now being sought. Anyone with a “useful point or consideration” should email Sheila Lavery on slavery@eircom.net.

The meeting starts at 6pm on 29 May in the sales ring at Tattersalls.

South Dorset kennel huntsman recovering after fall

Horse & Hound — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 17:42:22 +0000

The kennel huntsman of the South Dorset, Richard Tong, has broken his pelvis and dislocated his shoulder in a fall that will sideline him for the rest of the season.

Mr Tong was crushed on Thursday, 12 February, in what secretary Louisa Thornycroft called a “classic rotational fall”.

“He was bringing hounds down Dungeon Hill. His horse didn’t clear some iron railings and landed on him,” said Mrs Thornycroft.

Mr Tong was taken to Dorchester Hospital for an operation, and has been moved to Bristol for a second.

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (26 February, ’09)

Jade South’s family pays tribute to their ‘wonderful daughter’

Horse & Hound — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 12:40:09 +0000

The funeral of Jade South (pictured right), the 15-year-old who died in a rotational fall last month, took place today (Monday 10 November).

Her coffin was carried in a horse-drawn carriage, which was followed by the horse involved in the fatal accident. The church at Linton, Ross-on-Wye was full, with more than 100 people standing outside.

Her parents, Paul and Claire South, and brother Robert, have paid tribute to the teenager.

“Jade died doing what she loved best, riding her horse across country with her friends on a lovely sunny day. Her love of horses outweighed everything else,” they said. “We have 15 years of memories of her as a wonderful daughter and sister to cherish and comfort us in the months and years ahead.”

Jade was a member of the South Hereford and Ross Harriers Hunts branch of the Pony Club, and was on the area show jumping, eventing and stable management teams. She had done work experience at Three Counties Equine Hospital, and had decided to make a career in horses.

Jade’s brother, Robert, has set up a web page in aid of the County Air Ambulance, which has already raised more than £3,000. To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/robertsouth1

Parents sue US federation following rotational fall death

Horse & Hound — Wed, 28 May 2008 15:39:48 +0000

The parents of a 17-year-old American eventer who died in a rotational fall have launched a lawsuit against the United States Equestrian Federation and the United States Eventing Association in a California court.

Mia Eriksson died in 2006 while taking part in the Galway Downs CCI** in California.

The writ claims the course “was made more dangerous in order to make the competition more thrilling to spectators” and alleges Mia’s horse Koryography was unfit to ride because of prior falls and lack of practice.

They are also suing Mia’s trainer at the time of the accident, Kristi Nunnink.

Mia’s older sister, Shauna, died in 2003 after being thrown from a horse at Fresno State University in the US.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (29 May, ’08)

American eventer Darren Chiacchia making good progress

Pippa Roome — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 14:58:53 +0000

American eventer Darren Chiacchia, who was seriously injured in a rotational fall 10 days ago at Red Hills Horse Trials, is now breathing independently and able to communicate.

Darren remains in intensive care, but has made significant progress in the past week. Statements on his website first reported that he had squeezed people’s hands on command and opened his eyes last Thursday, 20 March.

The latest update from his family reads: “Darren was removed from the ventilator today and has been breathing independently now for about six hours. His ability to communicate is also improving, utilizing hand gestures and making appropriate eye contact. Prognosis remains positive, but he remains in the ICU [intensive care unit].”

Darren was injured in a rotational fall during a preliminary level competition at Red Hills Horse Trials, Florida on Saturday, 15 March. His mount, Baron Verdi, was unhurt.

Darren Chiacchia’s website

Top American event rider critically injured in rotational fall

Horse & Hound — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:37:12 +0000

America Olympic team bronze medallist Darren Chiacchia remains in a critical condition in hospital after suffering a rotational fall while taking part in Red Hills Horse Trials in Florida on Saturday (15 March).

Chiacchia (pictured right competing in Athens 2004) was riding seven-year-old Baron Verdi at preliminary level when the pair fell at the fifth cross-country fence. He was airlifted to Tallahassee Medical Center where he remains in critical condition.

His family have released a statement saying: “Darren sustained a severe head injury, and contusions to both lungs, with multiple rib fractures and a partially collapsed lung. His pulmonary function is improving, but the major concern remains the head injury.”

Darren’s ride, Baron Verdi, was uninjured, but two other horses died at the event. Jonathan Holling’s Direct Merger collapsed and died on course and Missy Miller’s Leprechauns Rowdy Boy died in a fall. Autopsies showed that both horses died due to pulmonary hemorrhage.

Related websites

Teenage event rider killed in rotational fall

Karen Spinner — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:05:02 +0000

Another event rider’s life has been claimed in a rotational fall.

The latest fatality occurred at a two-star competition at the Swedish venue of Bollnas last Saturday (21 July). The rider, 19-year-old Elin Stalberg, fell three from home.

Swedish Equestrian Federation spokesman Lotta Amnestål told H&H what happened.

She said: “Elin’s horse somersaulted over the last fence in a combination. Elin was taken to hospital, but died later.”

It is understood that the obstacle in question was a corner fence of no more than 1.15m in height.

Ms Amnestål said an investigation would be carried out.

But she added: “No other riders had a problem with the fence and the ground was fine.”

Young event rider killed in France

Horse & Hound — Tue, 08 May 2007 16:44:36 +0000

A 17-year-old girl was killed at a novice-level event in France on Saturday (5 May, ’07).

Julie Silly, from Longvilliers near Paris, died instantly in a rotational fall while tackling what has been described as a “straightforward” fence in “perfect conditions” at Jardy.

Julie was an experienced rider, who had ridden to intermediate level and was qualified for the French National Championships next month.

The remaining competitions at Jardy, on the Paris outskirts, were cancelled as a mark of respect to the 17-year-old.

Julie has been described by her trainer, Yves Dufresne, as an “experienced, athletic rider” who had “a lot of feeling” on a horse.

Gautier Beaudoin, a spokesman for the French Equestrian Federation told H&H: “It was a sad, tragic accident for which there is, unfortunately, no explanation.”

Julie Silly’s death is the seventh eventing fatality globally in the past 10 months. The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) has said it will look “very seriously” at safety at events around the world.

Read more about the accident, and FEI reaction, in this Thursday’s issue of H&H

Event rider killed at Fontainebleau in France

Horse & Hound — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 11:59:12 +0000

The sport of eventing has suffered another fatal accident. The tragedy occurred at a national competition at Fontainebleau last Sunday.

French rider Amelie Cohen, 30, fell from her horse at the seventh fence on the cross-country course, which had a height limit of 3ft 7.5in.

A spokesman for the Federation Francaise d’Equitation, told H&H Mademoiselle Cohen had died in a rotational fall.

She said: “The fence in question was not difficult, but the horse somersaulted and landed on top of Amelie. It was one of those very tragic accidents.”

Rider killed at Asian Games

Horse & Hound — Thu, 07 Dec 2006 11:21:45 +0000

The 15th Asian Games have been hit by tragedy with the death of a South Korean event rider.

Kim Hyung Chil, 47, died after his horse Bundaberg Black fell on top of him while negotiating fence eight on the cross-country course in Doha. Hyung Chil was attended to by medics at the scene and taken to Hamad General Hospital but he never regained consciousness.

Father-of-two Hyung Chil was the oldest member of the South Korean equestrian team. He had represented South Korea at four Asian Games and was a member of the silver-medal winning team in Busan 2002.

“On behalf of the Doha Asian Games Organising Committee, I send my deepest sympathies on the sad loss of Kim Hyung Chil,” said Ahmed Abdulla Al Khulaifi, DAGOC’s Deputy Director General of Corporate Support during an official press conference.

“The competition has lost a noble and an able rider. Our prayers and thoughts are with the family of the deceased, the whole South Korean team participating in Doha 2006 and the people of the nation.”

The competition resumed after a two-and-a-half hour break, following approval by the technical delegate, who inspected the course and the fence following the tragic accident. Bundaberg Black is currently under observation but is showing no obvious signs of injury. Organisers have confirmed that an official investigation will take place into the incident.

The South Korean team had made a winning start to the Asian Games by taking both the individual and team gold medals in the dressage competition.

Teenage event rider dies in fall

Horse & Hound — Thu, 23 Nov 2006 11:55:22 +0000

American teenager Mia Eriksson has died after her horse landed on her during a cross-country fall. The accident happened at Galway Downs Three-Day Event in Temecula, California, on 4 November.

Mia, 17, was riding her seven-year-old gelding Koryography in the CCI** when the accident happened. She was taken to Rancho Springs Hospital, Temecula, where she died.

Mia’s sister, Shana, 18, died in 2003 days after a riding accident when her horse fell on her after being frightened by cows.

Galway Downs organiser Robert Kellerhouse told H&H that Mia was killed in a slow rotational fall and that an investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Latest from Horse & Hound in Rotational-fall

Rotational falls in eventing at all-time low – but more work ‘still to do’

Rates of non-rotational horse falls at a cross-country fence are not as low as they were in the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, but are lower than they were pre-pandemic and significantly below 2011, which was the first year of “realistic reliable data”.

With the exception of the two pandemic years, 2022 also marked the lowest number of horse falls and rotational falls in real terms since 2011.

Mr O’Connor said the reductions are “to be congratulated” but “there is still work to do”.

“Rotational falls have really reduced by a tremendous amount – we’re at our lowest rate,” he said.

“Everything that we’re doing from course-design to shapes of fences and frangible technology coming in, is what is driving that number down.”

Mr O’Connor also voiced concerns that he feels concussions may be under-reported. The FEI has collected concussion data since 2018. In 2022, 17 were reported – 10 linked to serious injury and seven to slight injury.

He added that his impression from dealing with other horse sports is that the figure is “underrated”, and questioned whether that is down to the reporting process or recognition of concussions.

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Rider who broke back, ribs and hand in rotational fall qualifies for nationals five weeks on

“I thought I wouldn’t get through as I was a bit rusty!” Leigh told H&H. “It was my first show back and I jumped 90cm on the Friday, and worked my way up, and we ended up jumping triple clear.”

Leigh said she was knocked out when six-year-old Los Angeles fell last month.

“The pole got caught between his legs, and my head between him and the pole,” she said. “I was out cold so I don’t remember any of it, and I don’t want to.

“There wasn’t going to be an ambulance for five hours so they had to take me to hospital by car. It’s funny as out of all my injuries, it was the broken knuckle that was really sore; people would say what about the vertebra, but the knuckle was the worst!”

“I just wanted to jump triple clear and it was such an achievement. It would have been the biggest he’s jumped but he’s got such a big heart; he wants to do it more than I do, and he’s always got the biggest smile on his face.”

“We need so much more of that,” she said, adding that the exercises she did under her physio’s guidance helped strengthen and support her to recover.

“It makes me quite emotional to have had quite a bad accident and come straight back,” she said. “I’d just like to tell people to keep going, get the physio, have a goal and work towards it. I’m so proud of my little horse, and he really deserves it.”

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Top young rider who broke back in rotational fall returns to eventing success

Last week (11 March) Phoebe and 19-year-old Pica D’Or added nothing to their 28.6 dressage score at Oasby Horse Trials to finish second in open intermediate section J.

“Pica D’Or is a legend to go and perform that well at his age. He was trembling and bucking at the start of the cross-country in excitement – he absolutely loves it and isn’t ready to retire yet,” she said.

Phoebe and Pica D’Or have enjoyed great success together since they teamed up in 2018, including scoring a CCI4*-S victory at Strzegom Horse Trials in Poland in September 2020.

Read the full report from Oasby (1) Horse Trials in the 17 March issue of Horse & Hound magazine.

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Injured four-star rider forced to ‘write off’ eventing season looks to the future

James was sent home from hospital with two slings to support the breaks.

“It’s quite difficult as collarbones can’t be put in a cast so all you can do is wear a sling,” he said.

“It was quite upsetting as you don’t realise how much you use your collarbones, suddenly your freedom is taken away. I couldn’t do simple things like brush my own teeth or drive.”

“It took quite a while for things to improve at first and I had to move back to my parents home in Cornwall. But the brace made me much more comfortable, and I was in a lot less pain than before,” said James.

James said thanks to Dr Bayley he returned to the saddle sooner than he thought he would – at the end of the May. He was signed off as a patient, but the following day tore a ligament in his knee that required surgery.

“I was bending down to pick something up when it happened. It was so frustrating having got back on board the week before. After the surgery I had to wear a full leg brace for six weeks and that’s when I wrote the rest of the eventing season off for my horses,” said James.

“The recovery was difficult as I couldn’t really use crutches because my collarbones aren’t as strong as someone else’s might be. But after a couple of weeks of pottering around I was able to go back to teaching.”

After six weeks James returned to the saddle.

“I was excited to get back on but I had to take things quite easy. I got back on my four-star horse Rudy Valentino, I’ve had him nearly eight years and trusted he wouldn’t try to put me on the floor!” said James.

“Since then I’ve been concentrating on my fitness and strength but I’m pretty much back to normal. The plan is to get out to showjumping and dressage during winter in preparation for next year’s eventing season.”

James said while it was “upsetting” having two major setbacks, he tried to stay focused by looking to the future.

“It’s tough when you have those difficult days where you’re just sitting there thinking about everything but you just have to think about your end goal, know that you won’t be broken forever hopefully, be patient and carry on,” he said.

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Four-star event rider seriously injured in rotational fall makes competition comeback

“We had been in the lead after the dressage and had a good round showjumping,” she told H&H.

“I think we were three from home and he hesitated at the water and left a leg. He flipped, landed on top of me, rolled over and as he got up he stood on my leg and the studs went through the muscle.”

Phoebe went to hospital where X-rays revealed she had broken her pelvis and a bone in her lower back. She also required surgery to clean and stitch the wound on her leg. Union Fortunus was not injured in the accident.

“It was pretty awful, especially because I’ve never had a bad fall before or gone to hospital for anything. I had quite a scare and I was also disappointed because I thought that’s my season over,” said Phoebe.

Once Phoebe’s blood pressure was under control she began physio to get her back on her feet and she was released from hospital.

“I was told I had to be able to walk and use the stairs with crutches before they would let me home. I was so determined. They said they’d never seen anyone progress so much,” she said.

Phoebe continued with rehab and credits the use of BEMER therapy, a device that uses electro-magnectic waves to stimulate muscles and increase blood circulation, for her prompt healing.

On Saturday (4 September) Phoebe enjoyed her first competition since her accident. She was second on Quaikin Qurious and third on Tullabeg Chinzano in the BE100open class at Sapey, Herefordshire.

Phoebe is entered for the CCI2*-S on Clotaire De Ferival and the CCI3*-S on Pica D’Or at Cornbury House International on 8 September.

“It feels really good to be back,” she said. “I’m working really hard at the gym to make sure I’m as strong as I can be. I’ve got a couple more events planned for the rest of the year and I’m so grateful my owners kept supporting me while I was out.

“This weekend was a good confidence boost and I’m excited for the rest of the season.”

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Phoebe is entered for the CCI2-S on Clotaire De Ferival and the CCI3-S on Pica D’Or at Cornbury House International on 8 September.