- Tributes have poured in for a talented young rider whose future in equestrian sport had looked promising
- The teenager’s death has prompted several equestrian events to be cancelled as her community mourns
- Fellow riders and sporting organisations have shared emotional messages remembering her courage and love of horses
Source: Facebook
A talented teenage equestrian from Ireland has died just days after celebrating her 16th birthday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the horse-riding community. Lily Slattery, of Knock, County Mayo, died on Monday, 5 October 2026.
The young rider had already earned recognition for her performances and qualified for the prestigious Dublin Horse Show with Captain Candyman, a horse bred by her grandfather, Gabriel Slattery.
Her death has left family members, friends and fellow competitors mourning a young sportswoman remembered for her determination, passion and connection with horses.
Lily Slattery remembered for her equestrian talent
According to WalesOnline, Slattery won the Equestrian Award at the 2025 Connaught Telegraph Mayo Young Sportstars Awards.
Showjumping Ireland's Connaught Region paid tribute to the teenager, describing her as an exceptional competitor whose determination stood out despite her young age. In its statement, the organisation said:
"Every time she entered the arena, she gave it her absolute all and competed with such courage and passion."
It added that her infectious smile and the joy she brought to those around her would be greatly missed.
Horse Sport Ireland also expressed its condolences to the Slattery family, remembering Lily as a talented competitor who loved horses and was cherished by those around her.
The organisation said it hoped her loved ones would find comfort in the affection shown by Ireland's equestrian community.
Source: UGC
Equestrian events cancelled after Lily Slattery's death
The impact of Slattery's death extended beyond her family and close friends, with equestrian organisations cancelling or postponing events scheduled for the following weekend.
Claremorris Equestrian postponed its Arena One Day Event, explaining that the decision was made out of respect for the teenager and her grieving relatives.
The North Galway Hunt Committee also cancelled the Crossboyne Hack, which had been scheduled for Sunday, 11 October 2026.
In its announcement, the committee said:
"As a mark of respect to Lily and her family, the Crossboyne Hack, which was due to take place on Sunday, 11th October, has been cancelled."
Barnacarroll Riding Club described Lily as a "true horsewoman and friend" who was loved by people near and far.
Family and friends mourn young Irish rider
Lily was the daughter of Gillian and Christy Slattery and had two sisters, Morgan-Mai and Ruth-Elle. Her wider family also includes grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles.
Her funeral took place on Friday, 9 October, at St John the Baptist Church in Knock, followed by burial at Knock Cemetery.
The tributes from sporting organisations and the cancellation of local events reflect the impact of her death on the equestrian community. Lily's achievements, love of horses and the memories she created with those around her remain central to the tributes paid in her honour.
South African showjumping community mourns coach Michael Blom
Briefly News previously reported that the South African showjumping community was mourning the death of respected coach and equestrian figure Michael Blom.
He was remembered for his dedication to developing riders and the lasting relationships he built throughout the sport.
Source: Briefly News