Andrew McConnon and Powderhound at Carolina International. Photo by Brant Gamma.
Andrew McConnon and Powderhound just show jumped in the CIC2* here at The Fork, and Jessica Bortner-Harris has confirmed the horse collapsed back at the barns and passed away soon after. Andrew was on the horse when he fell, but Jessica confirmed Andrew was not injured in the fall. Everyone is very shaken up back at the barns, and we’re sending Andrew our deepest condolences. Rest in peace, Powderhound.
Update 3:35 p.m. EST: Powderhound’s passing has been confirmed by a statement released from The Fork. A 15-year-old Australian Sport Horse gelding, “Carlos” was competing in his first CIC2* event this weekend at The Fork. Andrew just took over the ride from Kaitlynn Mosing this past winter, and they were fourth in Preliminary at Pine Top Winter Horse Trials in their first outing together. Andrew and Carlos were most recently seventh in the CIC* at Pine Top Advanced and third in the Intermediate Rider division at Carolina International Horse Trials.
Update 6:15 p.m. EST: Andrew McConnon’s Facebook page was just updated with the following statement:
“It is hard to find words adequate enough to express the sorrow felt upon the tragic death of a loved horse and competitive partner, and those that know and love Andrew and Powderhound are indeed without words. Carlos was only in Andrew’s barn for a short while, but he was very much loved and very much appreciated for the warhorse he was. He was a wonderful event horse that knew his job and did it well, and we were all looking forward to watching their partnership grow. This tragedy is once again a reminder that we are so lucky to have horses in our lives, and must appreciate them every moment of every day. Hug your horse, and give Andrew a hug as well. Many thanks for all of your kind words.”
