Lily Slattery, a 16-year-old showjumper from Knock, Co Mayo, died on Monday, October 5, just days after her 16th birthday. Her death has prompted the cancellation of equestrian events across the Connaught region this weekend as the community mourns.
Lily, who previously won the Equestrian Award at the 2025 Connaught Telegraph Mayo Young Sportstars Awards, had also qualified for the Dublin Horse Show with Captain Candyman, a horse bred by her grandfather Gabriel.
Tributes to an 'exceptional competitor'
Showjumping Ireland Connaught Region described Lily as "an exceptional competitor, whose determination and will to win defied her tender years". In a tribute, the organisation said: "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, saying it "extends its deepest condolences to the Slattery family after the untimely passing of their beloved Lily". The organisation wrote: "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."
Events cancelled as mark of respect
Claremorris Equestrian postponed its Arena One Day Event planned for Sunday as a mark of respect. The organisation wrote: "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. Please keep her parents, siblings, grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, relatives, neighbours and friends in your thoughts over the next few days. We will revert with another date as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding."
The North Galway Hunt Committee also cancelled its Crossboyne Hack, due to take place on Sunday, October 11. In a statement, it said: "It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the untimely passing of Lily Slattery. As a mark of respect to Lily and her family, the Crossboyne Hack, which was due to take place on Sunday, 11th October, has been cancelled. Our deepest condolences are extended to the Byrne and Slattery families, and to all of Lily’s friends and loved ones. May Lily rest in eternal peace."
Barnacarroll Riding Club paid tribute to "true horsewoman" Lily, saying: "Everyone at Barnacarroll Riding Club extends our deepest sympathies to the Slattery family on the passing of Lily P Slattery. A true horsewoman and friend, who was loved and adored by people near and far. We are thinking of her parents Gillian & Christy, her sisters Ruth Elle and Morgan Mai, her extended family and friends at this difficult time. May Lily rest in eternal peace Forever loved, never forgotten."
Funeral arrangements
Lily’s funeral will take place on Friday at 10.30am at St John the Baptist Church in Knock. 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. The funeral will arrive at St John the Baptist Church, Knock on Friday morning for Mass at 10.30am, followed by burial in Knock cemetery.
