We’ve learned that a tragic equine fatality occurred today at Pine Top. Tortuga Bay, owned by Natalie Hummel and ridden by Ashley Kehoe, was put down on cross-country. We offer our sincerest condolences for their heartbreaking loss.
Ashley sent us a few words:
It is with a heavy heart that I write this. While on course today at Pine Top my partner Tortuga Bay, aka “Mickey,” and I fell at the 6th fence on the Preliminary course. After the vet’s arrival it was clear the best thing for Mickey was to be humanely euthanized. We’re not sure exactly what happened or why right now, but he will be taken to the UGA hospital for a necropsy to be performed. I’m very thankful to the whole Pine Top crew and attending vets Dr. Kim Keeton, Dr. Anne Baskett, and Dr. Bill Hay for everything they did to help Mickey. I am absolutely gutted, and devastated for owner, and good friend, Natalie Hummel. Mickey was one of the sweetest horses I have ever met, so genuine and all heart. I feel privileged to have known him. He will be sadly missed.