Conahy’s Courage Euthanized After Rotational Fall at Red Hills

Kyle Carter and Conahy's Courage. Photo by Ivegotyourpicture.com.

Kyle Carter and Conahy’s Courage at Rocking Horse. Photo by Ivegotyourpicture.com.

We’re devastated to report that Kyle Carter’s mount Conahy’s Courage, a 10-year-old Irish Sport Horse gelding owned by Imogen DeLavis, was euthanized after breaking his leg in a rotational fall at fence 12a, the first hobbit house at The Shire, in the CIC3* division at Red Hills this afternoon.

Tom Barron, Red Hills spokesman, released the following statement in a press conference at 6 p.m. EST:

“It is with deepest regret that we announce that Conahy’s Courage, ridden by Kyle Carter and owned by Imogen De Lavis, suffered a catastrophic injury at fence 12a in the CIC3* division at Red Hills International Horse Trials. The horse was humanely euthanized, and a post-mortem examination will be conducted at the University of Florida Large Animal Hospital in Gainesville.”

Rusty Lowe, Red Hills safety officer, confirmed Kyle had some minor injuries after the accident but is otherwise fine. After being evaluated by onsite medical personnel, it was determined he did not require transportation to a hospital. No further details have been released at this time.

Bred in Ireland by Harry Fitzpatrick, Conahy’s Courage, by Courage II out of Ballyragget Princess, was imported in 2011 as a 6-year-old for Kyle to bring up through the levels. The horse moved up to the Advanced level last year and completed his first CIC3* at Poplar Place in 2014. Courage was a barn favorite amongst the working students.

Imogen posted the following tribute on her Facebook page: “After the news today, reflecting on how incredibly grateful I am to have had the opportunity to own this little horse and to the Carters and associated team for doing such a brilliant and professional job with him.

“Impossible to forget the first time I jumped him in Ireland and Kyle and I deciding he had to come home right away. So much respect for Kyle Carter — thank you so much for all you did for Courage over the last three years. I couldn’t have asked for a better person for him. Thank you also to Red Hills and the vet team. Rest in peace, little horse.”

Our thoughts are with Kyle, Jen, Imogen and the Five Ring team as they grieve the loss of Courage during this heartbreaking time.

Rest in peace, Courage.