Fatal eventing accident confirmed as rotational fall
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.”
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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.
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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.
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Carol is an experienced journalist and editor, who is also a passionate amateur rider and dedicated horse owner, having ridden since childhood. She has a particular interest in the emotional well-being and ethical training of horses, alongside veterinary matters, having garnered extensive first-hand experience of numerous equine health conditions through more than 30 years of horse ownership.