Equestrian Laine Ashker and her mount, Frodo Baggins, were both injured this afternoon in an accident during the cross-country portion of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. The horse, a 12-year-old black Thoroughbred from New Zealand, was euthanized.

Frodo Baggins hit the fifth jump on the course and somersaulted over the obstacle, falling on Ashker.

Event organizers released the following statement:


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“Laine sustained injuries, but was conscious, talking and able to move all extremities. She was transported to the University of Kentucky Hospital. She is currently under the care of the emergency and trauma services staff.

“Frodo Baggins was immediately attended by a team of veterinarians. He was given intravenous fluids and supportive medications for shock and pain. After he was stabilized, he was sedated and transported by horse ambulance to nearby Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, where he was immediately attended by emergency personnel.


Further tests showed that Frodo Baggins had sustained a fracture at the base of his skull, as well as severe lung injury. As the prognosis was very poor, a representative of the family concurred that euthanasia was the most humane option for the horse. A complete necropsy examination will be performed. Everyone at the event is saddened by the loss of this brave horse.”

Ashker, 24, is from Crozier, Va. According to the Rolex Web site, she is ranked third nationally and was short-listed for the 2008 Olympic team with Frodo.

Ashker was one of four riders featured on the Rolex organizers’ Web site this year. Read this feature.  

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