Equestrian Celia Pickens dies in show jumping accident, remembered as a ‘true horsewoman’
Veteran equestrian Celia Pickens has died following a show jumping accident at the Papatoetoe Pony Club. The local equestrian community is mourning her loss, remembering her as a resilient and dedicated horsewoman.
Why it matters
The death highlights the inherent risks in equestrian sports and the tight-knit nature of local sporting communities.
A celebrated veteran equestrian is being remembered as a “true horsewoman” after she died in a showjumping accident after decades in the horse community.
Show Jumping Waitematā named Celia Pickens as the victim of an accident on Sunday at an event at the Papatoetoe Pony Club.
“There is something incredibly poignant about knowing that Celia’s final moments were spent doing the very thing she loved so much - show jumping,” the organisation said in a social media tribute.
The spokesperson said the equestrian community lost a true character, loyal supporter, wonderful horsewoman and, most importantly, a dear friend.
“Some people are simply part of the furniture in our equestrian world. They’ve been there forever, through generations of horses, riders, competitions, good days and bad. You just expect that they’ll always be there.
“Celia Pickens was one of those people,” Show Jumping Waitematā wrote.
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