Though equestrian sports don’t list under extreme sports, their associated risks are equal to that of the latter at times. Be it racehorses or even athletes, life-threatening occurrences often surface which leave the sports community shaken. Recently, another such news emerged from an accident at an equestrian center in Co Galway. In a recent article by The Irish Times, it was revealed that Heather Hewitt from Williamstown succumbed to her injuries post a terrible misfortune at Glenamaddy Equestrian Centre.

The incident occurred on Thursday and the family is grief-stricken. To weigh in on the ill-fated incident, several authorities and clubs have also paid tribute to the late member of the community. Here’s what happened. 

Shocking equestrian accident leads to loss of life

According to the publication, Hewitt was only in her 40s and the entire city is mourning the loss. An official of the center spoke on the matter. They claimed that the center was hosting a riding club when the incident took place. The horse was being mounted when Ms. Hewitt sustained fatal injuries. “It was a tragic accident,” the source stated. 

Reportedly, she was “pronounced dead at the scene” itself and was transported to Galway University Hospital for the post-mortem. The Emergency Services examined the scene of the accident the same day. Later on, a Health and Safety Authority officer also attended the grievous scene. The victim resided in Knockanarra and originally hails from Sussex, England. Sources reveal that she was the treasurer of Glenway Riding Club. Her husband, Kieran, and daughter, Beth are shaken by the incident, in addition to her entire extended family.

Read More: “We Were All Devastated”: Equestrian Death After Fatal Fall Leaves Sports World Shocked

Her funeral is set to take place a few days later in the UK and the family is deeply grateful to all those who helped her after the misfortune. A list of tributes followed remembering Ms. Hewitt and offering condolences to her family and friends. “On behalf of AIRC West Regional Committee, may we express our sincerest condolences to Heather’s family, friends and fellow club members,” the Association of Irish Riding Clubs (AIRC) shared. 

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In a similar incident, a 15-year-old daughter fell victim to a heart-wrenching accident after she fell from her horse. It was followed by the horse landing on top of her, causing ill-fated damage. These unfortunate scenarios iterate the need for better precautionary measures and prevent further life losses. How do you think such incidents can be avoided? Tell us in the comments.