Irish rider killed at one-day-event

The sport of eventing has claimed another life, with the death of Ireland’s Karen Rodgers at a one-day-event in County Cork yesterday.

The accident happened on the cross country course at Ballindenisk. Rodgers’ horse Kilcoltrim Brigade was not injured in the incident.

Rodgers, 41, was an experienced and successful rider, and had been involved in many aspects of equestrian sport in Ireland during the last 10 years.

Eventing Ireland and the Fell Family, organisers of the Ballindenisk ODE, have expressed their deep sadness and shock.

Eventing Ireland Chairman John Wright said yesterday from Ballindenisk: “We are in a state of shock, which we are sure will be shared by everyone in the horse sport community. Karen was a well-known and popular figure in equestrian circles, and we wish to extend our profound and heartfelt sympathy to all her family and friends.”

A full investigation is now being carried out into the circumstances of the accident.

Several deaths and serious injuries have marred eventing in recent years. British rider Eleanor Brennan was among nine riders killed during eventing competition in 2007. Other riders killed in 2007 included Amelie Cohen, Julie Silly, Jo-Anne Williams, and Maia Boutanos.

In March, US rider Darren Chiacchia suffered critical injuries during a cross-country event. After spending two weeks in intensive care, he is now undergoing rehabilitation.

Ireland reels at death of event rider

April 22, 2008

The Irish Horse Board has expressed its shock at the tragic death of Karen Rodgers, who was killed on Sunday while competing cross country at Ballindenisk.

Rodgers, 41, was an experienced and successful rider, and had been involved in many aspects of equestrian sport in Ireland during the last 10 years. She was a close colleague and friend of those in the Irish Horse Board.

Nicholas Finnerty, Director General of the IHB and Breeding Manager of Horse Sport Ireland, said, “We were deeply shocked to hear of Karen’s tragic death. On behalf of the Board and staff of the IHB, I would like to express our deepest sympathies to all Karen’s family and friends. Our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.”