This statement is posted on the behalf of Spring Bay Horse Trials and Organizer Mary Fike.
Lexington, Ky - We are sad to report that National du Pas died today while competing in the Training division at Spring Bay Horse Trials in Lexington, Kentucky. The cause of death is unknown at this point pending necropsy. The horse collapsed between obstacles (i.e. not related to a fence or jump) while on the cross-country course today. Rider Blake Park was not injured in the fall, but was transported to the University of Kentucky Medical Center for observation.
National du Pas, a 15-year-old Selle Francais gelding owned by Elizabeth Stewart, passed away between fences 11 and 12. According to USEF and USEA policies, the horse was transported to the Kentucky Diagnostic Lab for necropsy, which will be utilized to help further the USEA Equine Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research Study.
The USEA sends our heartfelt condolences to Blake, Elizabeth and all of National du Pas’ connections on this difficult day.
Are you following along with the action from home this weekend? Or maybe you're competing at an event and need information fast. Either way, we’ve got you covered! Check out the USEA’s Weekend Quick Links for links to information including the prize list, ride times, live scores, and more for all the events running this weekend.
Last month, readers met VIP Volunteer Rebecca Proetto, who volunteered at the MARS Maryland 5 Star horse inspection. This month, the focus turns to husband and wife Ed and Leanne Barnett who introduced Proetto to the art of running an efficient horse inspection at Maryland. Ed and Leanne undertake a 12-hour drive from their home in Indiana to Maryland just to volunteer at the event.
The USEA is saddened to share the passing of Sara Kozumplik’s five-star partner As You Like It at the age of 34. The gelding died in his sleep at his retirement home at Kozumplik's parents' residence.
The 2024 USEA Emerging Athletes U21 (EA21) National Camp is just a little over a month away and all over the country, young riders are preparing for their trip to Ocala, Florida, to participate in this year's prestigious week-long academy led by U.S. eventing legend David O'Connor. This year's camp takes place Dec. 31, 2024, through Jan. 4, 2025, and will feature classroom sessions, guest lecturers, and in the saddle work as a group to help strengthen the foundation of each rider selected to participate.