Hannah Serfass was a talented and passionate equestrian who had a bright future ahead of her. She was only 15 years old when she died in a tragic accident during a competition at Fox Lea Farm in Venice, Florida, on Sunday, May 2, 2023. What happened to Hannah Serfass and how did she die? Here is what we know so far.
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What is a Rotational Fall?
According to the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), Hannah Serfass was riding Quaxx 2, a 12-year-old Holsteiner gelding, in a hunter/jumper competition when the horse tripped and suffered a rotational fall. A rotational fall is a term used to describe a situation where a horse hits a fence with its forelegs or chest, causing it to flip over and land on its back or side. This can result in the horse landing on top of the rider, which can cause fatal injuries.
Rotational falls are the leading cause of death and serious injuries in equestrian sports, especially in eventing, which involves cross-country, dressage, and show jumping. According to a study by Ohio State University, 10% to 30% of all horse-related injuries are head injuries, and 60% to 70% of horse-related fatalities are caused by head injuries. Of all the sports in the U.S., equestrian sports are the most common cause of sports-related traumatic brain injury in adults.
How Did the Accident Happen?
According to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, Hannah Serfass was halfway through the course when the accident happened. The horse had just landed successfully and took a few steps to the next hurdle when it planted its left front hoof, causing it to lean down significantly toward its left front hoof. This action caused Hannah Serfass to topple forward and off the horse in the same direction and onto the ground. The horse then continued to fall in the same direction, falling over and onto Hannah Serfass’s head on the ground.
First aid was rendered by Fox Lea Farm personnel and others until the Sarasota County Fire Rescue responded. Hannah Serfass was taken to the Sarasota Memorial Hospital Venice campus, where she was later pronounced dead. The horse was not injured in the incident.
Who Was Hannah Serfass?
Hannah Serfass was a junior rider from Webster, Florida, who trained with Robin Swinderman. She was known for her passion for horses, her natural ability, and her work ethic. She competed in the entire winter 2022 circuit at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala, where she was featured in a profile by Ben Baugh in the World Equestrian Center Magazine in March 2023. She said in the interview:
“I just got into it and never wanted to stop. And now, I just want to learn everything I can about it. I want to keep going with it.”
Hannah Serfass also ran track and cross country at Wildwood Middle School. She was home-schooled, but participated in extracurricular activities with the Sumter County School District. She was a member of the Sumter County 4-H group.
How Did the Equestrian Community React?
The equestrian community was shocked and saddened by the news of Hannah Serfass’s death. Fox Lea Farm issued a statement expressing their condolences to Hannah Serfass’s family, trainer, friends, and the whole equestrian community. They said:
“We are all heartbroken.”
The USEF and the USHJA also released statements offering their sympathy and support to Hannah Serfass’s loved ones. They said they would review the accident thoroughly to learn what they can do to minimize risk and increase safety in equestrian sport.
Many equestrians and fans took to social media to pay tribute to Hannah Serfass and share their memories of her. They used the hashtag #rideforhannah to honor her legacy and show their solidarity. Some of them also shared pictures and videos of Hannah Serfass and her horse Quaxx 2, highlighting their bond and achievements.
Hannah Serfass was a young rider who had a lot of potential and a lot of love for her sport. She will be missed by many who knew her and admired her. Her death is a reminder of the risks and dangers that equestrians face every time they ride, and the need for more awareness and prevention of rotational falls. Rest in peace, Hannah Serfass.
