I won’t comment on allegations apparently made upthread, but from what little I could find online, it sounds like it was a tragic accident and I am not sure it’s relevant to the thread… unless the notion is that none of us should ride or work with horses.
It appears that this was a H/J show. While it is indeed a tragedy, and my heartfelt condolences go out to all those who knew and loved the person whose life was lost and those who witnessed the accident, I wonder if it is germane to the broader conversation on this Eventing thread.
If it was a rotational fall, such accidents in H/J (or Stadium) are exceedingly rare, and I am not sure there is very much else that can be done to prevent them. We already have flat cups and jumps designed to come down when hit. If it was a horse trip and fall or a “regular” rider fall or any number of other scenarios, those can happen in any discipline at any gait at any time. As we don’t know for sure the exact nature of the fall, or the injuries, or whether the rider was wearing a safety vest, it is likewise unclear if wearing one could have mitigated injuries.
Perhaps details will emerge that demonstrate that indeed, conditions were such that changes should be made. I don’t know that is clear at this point.
So, I am not sure there is much to discuss here other than the shock and sadness at someone doing something they, and we, love and losing their life in the process.
As a horsewoman, that is something that I have to accept is a possibility for myself, even when all precautions are taken. I think we all accept that risk when we decide to own, ride or be around horses.
I wish the friends and family peace and comfort, and may the rider rest in peace.
