The Federation Equestrian Internationale (FEI) provided this statement regarding the death of a horse today in New Zealand at the Mitavite International Horse Trials:

“Double Chocolate, a horse ridden by Katrina McQuarters (NZL), died today following elimination from the cross country phase of the Mitavite International Horse Trials at Kihikihi, Waikato (NZL). The horse completed 21 fences clear before being eliminated at fence 22 following 3 refusals.

“The rider was walking home when the horse became distressed and collapsed. The treating vet was on hand within two minutes and advised that the horse was already beyond all aid. The cause of death was a heart attack.”