Horse Dies, Rider Injured at Ocala

Laura Linback, 48, an American show jumper, was injured when the horse she was riding at the HITS Ocala Winter Championship, HH Dauphin, died suddenly after leaving the ring.

Linback and the 14-year-old grey Dutch stallion had just completed their jump-off round in the $25,000 Junior/Amateur-Owner Jumper Classic on March 26th when the horse collapsed. Linback was still aboard the horse and suffered a severe head injury. She was treated on-site by medics before being flown by helicopter to an unspecified medical center. In a statement, HITS president and CEO Tom Struzzieri said, “Surgery was performed on Laura and all of us are awaiting word on her progress,” Her condition is unknown at this time.

Linback and her family operate Woodrun Farm in Mundelein, IL, and Morriston, FL. HH Dauphin had been shown by Linback since 2011 and was owned by Woodrun Farm and Alvin and Nancy Gorman.

More from Horse Sport:

Christilot Boylen Retires From Team Sport

After an exemplary career as one of Canada’s top Dressage riders, seven-time Olympian Christilot Boylen has announced her retirement from team competition.

2020 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Cancelled

For only the second time in its history, The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair has been cancelled but plans are being made for some virtual competitions.

Royal Agricultural Winter Fair Statement on 2020 Event

As the Province of Ontario starts to reopen, The Royal’s Board and staff will adhere to all recommendations put forward by government and health officials.

Government Financial Assistance for Ontario Farmers

Ontario Equestrian has recently released this update of several financial assistance packages available, including those for farm business.