Tiggy Hancock, a 15-year-old horse rider, was recognized as a rising star in showjumping competitions. According to the Independent, she is from Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow, and comes from a family with a long history in equestrian sport.
She was a member of the Carlow and Kilkenny Hunt Pony Club for many years and a very accomplished working hunter-pony competitor. Here is everything you want to know about her!
Who was Tiggy Hancock?
“Tiggy was a highly talented young athlete and a respected member of our pony high-performance eventing program,” Horse Sport Ireland (HSI) said.
“Tiggy only began eventing in the autumn of 2018, making an immediate impact on the sport,” it continued.
“After a string of strong performances in 2019, she was chosen to represent Ireland at the Under-16 European Eventing Team Championships in Poland, where she and her teammates won a bronze medal.”
“Tiggy has recently impressed against senior competitors… with Coppenagh Spring Sparrow finishing just outside the podium, defeating seasoned athletes who have competed at European and world level.”
“Tiggy was well-liked by both junior and senior members of the Irish equestrian family, and her death will be felt by everyone.”
“The Hancock family is known throughout Ireland for their commitment to the equestrian community, and those who know them will share in their grief.”
“Everyone in society is shocked and saddened by the untimely death of one of our beloved members, Tiggy Hancock,” the Irish Pony group wrote on Facebook.
“The IPS wishes to express our heartfelt condolences to her family and many friends.” “Tiggy was an exceptional and talented young rider who was an inspiration to so many of our members.”
“Her achievements in the IPS and all equestrian disciplines, both here and in the United Kingdom, are well documented.”
“[Tiggy] will be remembered for her radiant smile, gratitude, and laughter in triumph and defeat.” “All who had the opportunity to spend time with her will greatly miss her.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the poor child's family and friends,” said Greenogue Equestrian Centre in Dublin.
“She was a star in the equestrian community and will be hugely missed.” On social media, friends who are still in shock over Tiggy's passing have paid tribute to her.
How Did Tiggy Hancock Die?
Tiggy Hancock died on Wednesday, June 16, “after a tragic accident at a squad training event in Greenogue, Dublin,” according to HSI.
She was brought to Our Lady's Hospital in Crumlin, where she eventually died. According to the Independent, Tiggy fell from a horse during a jump.
“The loss of a young person is always particularly difficult to comprehend,” stated HSI.
“This will be a difficult time for many of Tiggy's sports teammates and friends.”
“Horse Sport Ireland has a designated support person to assist individuals affected, and we would encourage them or their parents to seek help.”
The Irish Pony Society posted on Facebook, “The spring show scheduled for this weekend in Raheen Na Gun will not take place.”
Police in Dublin acknowledged that an investigation into the teen's death is ongoing and that a case for the coroner is being prepared.
“The Coroner has been notified of this tragic incident,” a garda spokesman stated. “The Health and Safety Authority has also been notified and will carry out an examination tomorrow, Thursday 17th June 2021.”
