Powderhound, a 15-year-old Australian Thoroughbred ridden by Andrew McConnon in the CIC** division at The Fork International Horse Trials, died on April 5 after collapsing while returning to the stables after completing his show jumping round.

The Fork released a statement explaining the incident.

“It is with great sadness that we announce that Powderhound, owned and ridden by Andrew McConnon, collapsed and died while returning to the stables after competing in the CIC** jumping phase while competing at The Fork event in Norwood, N.C., at approximately 1:45 p.m. on April 5.

The entire organizing committee and officials extend its heartfelt condolences to Andrew McConnon at this difficult time.”

McConnon had completed the CIC* at Chattahoochee Hills in February with Powderhound and the pair was sitting in 23rd place in the CIC** division at The Fork.

Powderhound had previously been campaigned to the CIC*** level by Australian rider Hamish Cargill, at the two-star level with Arden Wildasin and the one-star level with Kaitlynn Mosing.

The cause of death has not been released.

A statement released on McConnon’s Facebook page reads-

“It is hard to find words adequate enough to express the sorrow felt upon the tragic death of a loved horse and competitive partner, and those that know and love Andrew and Powderhound are indeed without words. ‘Carlos’ was only in Andrew’s barn for a short while, but he was very much loved and very much appreciated for the warhorse he was. He was a wonderful event horse that knew his job and did it well, and we were all looking forward to watching their partnership grow. This tragedy is once again a reminder that we are so lucky to have horses in our lives, and must appreciate them every moment of every day. Hug your horse, and give Andrew a hug as well. Many thanks for all of your kind words.”