Naveah and Andrea Leatherman at the Virginia Horse Trials last fall. Photo via Andrea's Facebook.
Buck Davidson updated us this afternoon on Andrea Leatherman, who is currently recovering in Ocala Regional Hospital after a rotational fall Friday at the Ocala Horse Trials left her with serious injuries and claimed the life of her 7-year-old Thoroughbred mare Neveah. According to Buck, the post-accident necropsy identified a heart attack as Neveah’s cause of death. Buck said Andrea — who suffered punctured lungs, cracked ribs and a concussion — is up and walking around today with assistance, which is very painful and tiring for her. Our hearts go out to Andrea, as we can only imagine the kind of physical and emotional pain she is experiencing right now.
“She is very sad about Neveah,” Buck said. “She loved that little mare — what a nice horse. Andrea is a great rider and will be back soon. Neveah will be in our thoughts forever.” As Buck said, this tragedy is heartbreaking, but, thankfully, Andrea will make a full recovery. As Eventing Nation reported Friday, Neveah and Andrea suffered a rotational fall on the intermediate cross-country course when the mare left both legs at the fourth jump, an oxer table. She landed with her head and neck on Andrea, who lost consciousness. Neveah expired shortly thereafter. Andrea regained consciousness at the scene before being transported to Ocala Regional Hospital.
