American eventer Darren Chiacchia was airlifted to hospital following a disasterous tumble at the Red Hills Horse Trials in Tallahassee, Florida on March 15th.

Riding seven-year-old Baron Verdi over the Preliminary cross-country course, Chiacchia was negotiating the Preliminary cross-country course when the pair shockingly somersaulted.

Chiacchia has admitted to the neuro intensive care unit with a severe head injury, contusions to both lungs with multiple rib fractures and a partially collapsed lung.

The Chiacchia family has been posting updates on his condition at www.eventrider.com. As of March 16th, it was reported that:

As of March 16th, Chiacchia’s website reported the following:

“Initial concerns about spinal injury were alleviated after extensive specialized testing. His pulmonary function is improving, but the major concern remains the head injury. His overall condition shows definite improvement, but he remains unconscious. His family and close friends are with Darren, and all remain optimistic he will continue a slow, but steady, recovery. Please keep Darren in your thoughts and prayers.”

The March 17th post, read:

“After breathing independently for a few hours, Darren had a temporary set back. He developed a fever and pneumonia causing him to be re-intubated and is now breathing with a ventilator. He continues to receive superior medical care and remains in critical but stable condition. The Chiacchia family wishes to extend their appreciation for all the concern and support.”

In addition to Chiacchia’s accident, two horses died on the cross-country course at the event. While Jonathan Holling’s mount, Direct Merger’s death was immediately believed to be the result of an aneurysm or heart failure, the second horse, Leprechaun’s Rowdy Boy (ridden by Missy Miller), also apparently suffered an aneurysm according to the results of a necropsy.

More from Horse Sport: