British Eventing announces the deaths of two riders following separate incidents
Reviews are taking place in Cumbria and Oxfordshire
British Eventing has announced the deaths of riders Sophie Fouracre and Kerry Donoghue following separate incidents.
Fouracre, 34, was fatally injured in a cross-country accident riding Rhubarbsfox Brittania at Swalcliffe Park in Oxfordshire yesterday (Saturday 18th July 2026).
Donoghue, 42, died hours later following a cross-country accident riding Carneyhaugh Rua at Penrith, Cumbria.
In accordance with British Eventing procedures, comprehensive reviews of the accidents will be undertaken.
Both horses were examined by vets and found to be uninjured.
British Eventing chief executive Rosie Williams said in a statement: “The British Eventing community is heartbroken.
“On behalf of everyone at British Eventing, I want to extend our deepest condolences to Kerry and Sophie’s families, friends and loved ones at this devastating time.
“The loss of two members of our eventing family on the same day is almost beyond words, and we know the sadness of these events will be felt profoundly across the sport for some time to come.”