Burghley 2014: Horse fatality on cross-country day
A horse has died as the result of an injury sustained during the cross-country phase at Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials today (6 September).
Sara Squire’s Orto hit the first element of Fence 19 — where Sara looked like she was going to take the long route — and was immediately pulled up.
After being examined by a vet it emerged that the 13-year-old had done serious damage to his right stifle.
“Following transportation to our veterinary hospital facility where a detailed examination including radiography was conducted by our expert team of veterinary surgeons, the decision was made to euthanize him on welfare grounds,” said a spokesman from Burghley.
“We would like to extend our sincere sympathy to Sara, the owners Mr & Mrs Budd, and all associated with Orto — such a talented horse.”
Sara had ridden the horse since BE100 level and this was the combination’s first four-star. Sara and Orto were in 29th place after dressage and had been jumping clear until this point.
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Sophia Heath joined Horse & Hound in July 2013 having previously worked for the Daily Telegraph's Olympics website, CNN International and Omnisport. A Durham graduate with a Masters in journalism from City University, Sophia has evented, showjumped and hunted. Sophia left Horse & Hound in early 2015 to join an international boating website.