This year’s Tevis Cup saw three incidents involving horses who came off of the trail.
The first happened between Last Chance and Swinging Bridge and involved one of the leaders. Unfortunately, that horse died from his injuries. The rider was unharmed.
Two more incidents occurred in the last third of the ride – between Foresthill and Francisco’s. One rider was uninjured, the other received medical attention for some bruised ribs. Both horses were rescued; one was airlifted to safety and is still under veterinary supervision, while the other is resting comfortably at home.
As two of the riders have requested privacy, no further names are being disclosed at this time.
Ride management dispatched rescue teams – including veterinarians and specially-trained personnel – to all three locations. In the case of the two incidents between Foresthill and Francisco’s, Sweep Riders of the Sierra (SOS) were first on scene and able to coordinate with Net Control. The situation was further helped by the fact that both horses were carrying GPS trackers.
We are deeply saddened by the loss of a horse and very concerned that we had three separate accidents this year. The WSTF Board of Governors will dedicate time, resources, and money to figuring out what happened in these incidents.
Chuck Stalley
Ride Director
Mike Peralez
Head Vet