On Sunday 6th March, 17 year old Olivia Inglis died on the cross country course at Scone Horse Trials in NSW, Australia. Her much loved horse Coriolanus also suffered injuries and, following advice from Scone Equine Hospital, Coriolanus was euthanised on Tuesday after x-rays revealed he was suffering from a displaced fracture in his neck.
The funeral service and celebration of Olivia’s life will be held at 11.30 am on Monday 14 March 2016 at St Judes, Avoca Street Randwick, Sydney. Parking will be available at Inglis Newmarket, 1 Young Street, Randwick and guests can walk to the service or utilise the available shuttle bus.
We pay this tribute to Olivia and mourn her passing, as do many in the eventing community around the world
Tribute to Olivia
“Today, the usually glorious hills of Gundy still reverberate with the shock and mourning of the eventing community’s grief. Through a tragic incident in the 2 Star class at Scone Horse Trials, we eventers have lost a daughter, a sister, a great friend, a worthy fellow rider and a dazzlingly bright shining light.
Olivia Inglis, aboard her own horse Coriolanus, died as the result of a rotational fall at Fence 8B of the 2 Star cross country track. It has been reported from many sources that Olivia had the horse well in hand and was riding safely and competently, which makes this accident all the more heartbreaking. The fence itself had already been safely negotiated by three competitors and was part of the previous year’s 2 Star course.
At just 17 years of age, Olivia was far too young to be taken from us, especially from her wonderful family. However, it is apparent that in her short time in this world, she already had more strength of character, resilience, determination and true beauty than others can achieve in 70 years. She was one of the rare souls who could mix talent and ambition with true humility and she was noted for her ability to inspire others as she herself accomplished wondrous things.
Our deepest thoughts go out to Olivia’s parents Charlotte and Arthur and to her sisters Antoinette and Alexandra, as well as all of Olivia’s greater family and numerous friends. Not many of us will know what it is like to be in your position right now, but we want you to know that the whole eventing fraternity is there for you, for whatever you need. It is important to reiterate Equestrian Australia’s offer of counseling for anyone at Scone Horse Trials who has been affected by this tragedy – please call Davidson Trahaire Corpsych on 1300 360 364 if you feel that it might help you in any way.
It is also important to include the committee of Scone Horse Trials in our thoughts, as this will have taken a heavy personal toll on each one of them. The club’s professional, compassionate and appropriate response to this tragedy has been remarkable and highlights the care that event committees feel for their riders.
Rest In Peace, Olivia – may your star always shine where we can behold it’s wonder
Marcia Williamson
“In our sport, every time a rider goes out on cross country they may have many different goals for that particular course, horse, day. But above all, it is most important they come home safe.
Unfortunately today, everyone's worst nightmare came true and the world lost a beautiful young girl while she was out doing what she loved. Sending our heartfelt sympathies to the Inglis family during this incredibly difficult time. Words are never really adequate, but know that our hearts are heavy for you. Rest in Peace Olivia”
Shane Rose Eventing Facebook Page
“When life delivers the cruel and vicious blow it did to the Inglis Family yesterday it is hard to know what to make of the world. But this I do know, Olivia Inglis was a young woman full of grace and beauty. A young woman that you would have been proud to call your daughter, your sister, your friend. It was an all too short a crowded hour of life; but you were glorious in it and we shall always remember you that way. To the Inglis Family, we are all thinking of you, whatever you need we are here”
Wallaby Hill Eventing Facebook Page
The longest night has passed, I wake this morning still filled with grief, sadness and disbelief. The tears continue to swell, uncontrollable with thoughts that can't be pushed aside. Olivia Inglis you touched my heart with your beauty, grace and determination. Your unconditional love for your horses was so true and admirable. I cannot fathom the grief and loss that aches the Inglis family. As a mother and friend I cannot speak right now. Charlotte Inglis you are a wonderful mother, wife and friend and I grieve with you and your family. Be strong. Olivia was truly taken too early. RIP beautiful Olivia you will be missed forever and ever. I can only say how sorry I am that you have been dealt this devastating tragedy. Forever you have my love, Karen”
Tinney Eventing Facebook Page
#RideforOlivia
