Tributes pour in for 'gentle soul' as teenage equestrian star dies days after 16th birthday

A teenager's death has shook the equestrian community, as the star Lily Slattery, died just days after her 16th birthday.

Lily, from Cork , passed away on Monday, October 5 and has been described as a “true horsewoman ” and an “exceptional competitor.” She was a rising star in the sport and the winner of the Equestrian Award at the 2025 Connaught Telegraph Mayo Young Sportstars Awards, reports the Irish Mirror.

Events in the Connaught region scheduled for this weekend have been cancelled as the community mourns the young rider.

Heartfelt tributes have been paid to the young girl with Showjumping Ireland Connaught Region describing Lily as “an exceptional competitor, whose determination and will to win defied her tender years”.

The organisation wrote: “Everyone at Connaught Showjumping was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the untimely passing of our dear friend, Lily.

“Lily was an exceptional competitor, whose determination and will to win defied her tender years. Every time she entered the arena, she gave it her absolute all and competed with such courage and passion.

“We will all miss her infectious smile and the joy she brought to those around her, but we will cherish the memories of Lily and hold her close in our hearts always.

“We extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Lily’s family and all those who loved her during this incredibly difficult time. May Lily rest in eternal peace.”

Horse Sport Ireland also paid tribute to Lily. In a post, it said it "extends its deepest condolences to the Slattery family after the untimely passing of their beloved Lily".

“Lily was a talented competitor who loved horses and was much loved herself by family and friends. We hope they can take comfort and solace in the outpouring of affection from the Irish equestrian community for Lily at this heartbreaking time. May she rest in peace"

Her death notice on RIP.ie states: “Lily Slattery, Drum, Knock, Co. Mayo, 5th October 2026. Predeceased by her grandmother Phil Slattery and uncle Barry Byrne.

“Deeply and always loved by her heartbroken parents Gillian and Christy, sisters Morgan-Mai and Ruth-Elle, grandparents Gabriel (Slattery) John and Mary (Byrne) aunts, uncles and all her much loved cousins, extended family and her many friends. May her gentle soul rest in peace

“Lily will repose in the Marian Funeral Home, Knock (F12 A726) on Thursday evening, October 8, from 5pm until 8pm. Funeral arriving at St John the Baptist Church, Knock on Friday morning for Mass at 10.30am followed by burial in Knock cemetery."

Organisers of the events that have been cancelled this weekend also paid respect to Lily. Claremorris Equestrian posted: “It is with regret and deep sadness that we need to postpone the Arena One Day Event planned for Sunday. This is as a mark of respect to Lily Slattery who has been taken from us far too soon.