Horse riding star Sarah Yorke has tragically died after falling during a event on Friday in Northamptonshire.
The fatal accident occurred at the third fence whilst Yorke was competing in the showjumping phase of the eventing competition, which combines dressage, cross-country and showjumping disciplines.
Yorke was participating in the BE100 division alongside her mount MGH HERA, marking their debut together at this competitive level. The category is specifically structured to provide grassroots competitors and their horses with valuable competitive experience.
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The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Britain's equestrian community, with the remaining day of the three-day event cancelled in response to the devastating incident.
Sarah Yorke fell during an event on Friday
|British Eventing's Chief Executive, Rosie Williams, issued a statement expressing the organisation's profound sorrow: "On behalf of everyone at British Eventing, I would like to express our deepest condolences to Sarah's family and friends. The thoughts of the entire eventing community are with them at this incredibly difficult time."
Emergency medical personnel responded immediately after Yorke's fall at the third obstacle, but despite their efforts, they were unable to save her life.
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The horse involved in the incident, MGH HERA, received immediate veterinary attention at the venue and was able to walk back to the stables without injury.
The governing body has confirmed that a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident will be conducted according to their standard procedures.
Members of the equestrian community have shared heartfelt messages on British Eventing's social media channels following the announcement of Yorke's death.
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The death has sent shockwaves through the community
|"Sarah I am going to miss your smile, you brought energy everywhere you went. You are one of a kind and bloody good friend and you will wear the brightest angel wings. I have few words only tears at this very sad time," one tribute read on Facebook.
Another person commented: "Heartbreaking. Deepest condolences to Sarah's family and friends."
The accomplished rider had recently celebrated victory in July, securing first place in the BE90 category at Swalcliffe Park equestrian centre near Banbury, Oxfordshire, with her seven-year-old horse.
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The final day of the Aston-le-Walls Horse Trials, scheduled for today, has been cancelled following yesterday's tragedy. The venue will proceed with a previously arranged showjumping and cross-country training session tomorrow, which is separate from the competition.
British Eventing has announced that a thorough examination of the incident will take place in accordance with their established safety protocols.
The final day of the event was cancelled as a result of the tragedy
|The organisation has highlighted the availability of support services for those affected by the tragedy. The BE Support Trust operates a confidential helpline staffed by qualified professionals, accessible round the clock on 07780 008877.
British Eventing stressed the significance of mutual support within the equestrian community during this profoundly difficult period.