Francisco Seabra and Zarthago at WEG. Photo by Jenni Autry.
It is with great sadness we have learned 30-year-old Francisco Seabra of Portugal died on cross country at the Rancho Alegre Eventing Tour de Utrera in Sevilla, Spain, today while competing in the CIC2*.
According to an announcement on Rancho Alegre’s website, the accident occurred at the third element of fence 10, a water jump, of the Pierre Michelet designed cross-country course.
Paramedics attended to Francisco immediately, and he was declared dead at the scene. A statement from the FEI reports that the horse, 12-year-old Aferzysta, was uninjured in the fall.
“On behalf of all the sports world, I would like to extend my heartfelt considerations to the family of Mr. Francisco Seabra,” said President of the Ground Jury Alain James in an official statement.
Francisco represented Portugal at the 2014 World Equestrian Games in Normandy. He and the then 10-year-old gelding Zarthago finished in 44th place individually.
Francisco was a very familiar and much-loved face in the eventing community, having competed regularly in events across Europe and in the UK, from Barroca d’Alva and Vale Sabroso to Blair Castle and Blenheim.
Many riders are offering their condolences on Twitter, and our hearts are with all who knew and loved Francisco at this time.
So Saddened to hear one more friend died today in our sport RIP Francisco great friend and excellent horseman sympathy to Duarte and Family
— Clayton Fredericks (@ClaytonFrederi1) February 14, 2015
Still can’t believe we have lost another true friend from our Barroca family. We all loved you. RIP Francisco. Love to Duarte and family — Joe Meyer (@JoeMeyerEvntr) February 14, 2015
No words , I will miss you forever a fantastic man , rider ,person , my brother I love you 🙁 RIP Francisco #sosad pic.twitter.com/Ngh5N3Xrm0
— Ruy Fonseca (@RuyFonseca) February 14, 2015
