Equine incident in Luhmühlen leads to slumber following tumble
A Heartbreaking Turn of Events at Luhmühlen
In a somber turn of events, the equine contender, Chiquita, had to be put down following an accident at the Luhmühlen eventing competition. Ridden by Maj-Jonna Ziebell, 13-year-old Chiquita sustained injuries during a fall on the cross-country course. The horse received immediate veterinary attention on the scene and was transported to a nearby animal clinic, where veterinarians were left with no choice but to euthanize Chiquita due to the severity of her injuries[1][4].
Ziebell, a 29-year-old equestrian from Döhle, shared her heartbreak over the loss: "Chiquita was something phenomenal. Everyone who had the chance to meet her fell in love with her. I've lost my dearest friend, and I am utterly devastated," she said[2].
Competing Challenges
The unfortunate incident cast a shadow over the German Championships in Eventing as Julia Krajewski continued to dominate the competition. Krajewski, a 36-year-old Olympic champion from the 2024 Tokyo games, maintained her lead. After two rounds of dressage, she was already in the pole position[3].
Riding her 11-year-old steed, Nickel, Krajewski incurred only 2.4 penalty points due to a time overrun in the cross-country phase[3]. A final show jumping decision is set for Sunday (13:00 CET/NDR)[3]. Emma Brüssau currently holds second place, climbing her way up from fifth after partnering with her equine companion, Dark Desire[3].
[1] Supplemental Report A - Veterinary Records
[2] Statement from Maj-Jonna Ziebell
[3] dpa - Latest News
[4] Event Organizers' Announcement
Sports enthusiasts at the German Championships in Eventing were saddened by the sudden death of Chiquita, a 13-year-old horse that was competing in the cross-country phase. Despite showing promise under rider Maj-Jonna Ziebell, Chiquita had to be euthanized due to the severity of her injuries.
