The United States Equestrian Federation deeply regrets the passing of Cindy Burge of Spokane, Washington. Ms. Burge was critically injured Saturday, July 24th at The Event at Rebecca Farm in Kalispell, Montana, where she was competing in the Open Preliminary division when her horse tripped and fell on her while galloping on the flat. She passed away July 28th at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula, Montana.

“I first met Cindy when her family was preparing for the first Deep Creek Horse Trials,” recalled Roger Haller, Chairman of the USEF Eventing Committee. “She was just a teenager, but even then she was balancing her riding with contributions to the sport. As an organizer, trainer, Area Chairman, committee member, competitor and friend, Cindy has always been a vital part of our sport. Eventing has a huge gap to fill and we will miss her greatly.”

“Cindy was the ultimate horse enthusiast,” said David O’Connor, President of the USEF, “She was just so passionate about horse sports and was totally committed to Eventing. For years she volunteered her time at all levels of the sport. The entire sport horse community will sorely miss her, and wishes to express its deepest sympathy to Ms. Burge’s family and friends. Our hearts go out to them. ”

Messages of sympathy for the family should be directed to Kaye Hambrook, Deep Creek Horse Trials Event Secretary via email at [email protected] or by mail to:
Deep Creek Horse Trials
811 N. Deep Creek Road
Medical Lake, WA 99022

The memorial service for Cindy will be held at Deep Creek Farm on Wednesday, August 4th, at 4:00 p.m.

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