Four-star eventer dies following Luhmühlen fall
Belgian eventer Axel Z has died following a cross-country fall at the Luhmühlen Horse Trials on Saturday.
The 10-year-old, ridden by Chloe Raty, fell at fence 18b, and upright, on the CCI4* course.
A statement from organisers said Axel Z received immediate veterinary attention, and was taken to a veterinary clinic.
“Unfortunately, spinal injuries were diagnosed and Axel Z sadly could not be saved.”
An X-ray had revealed a fracture of the first lumbar vertebrae, veterinarian Jürgen Martens said.
Raty, 24, was taken to hospital and an examination revealed no injuries.
Media reports indicated Axel Z (Asca Z x Odessa [Gastal]) took off early from 18a, and caught a foreleg on the next obstacle, falling heavily as he landed.
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