LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A 9-year-old kid was injured after their horse reared up, fell and died during the World's Championship Horse Show at the Kentucky State Fair Wednesday morning.
State Fair officials said the rider was evaluated on-site and taken to the hospital.
According to Lone Star Saddlebreds, during the competition, it was one of their horses who suffered a sudden medical episode as she stood waiting for judges. They say the horse's name was Nosey Rosey.
Robert Johnson, a breeder based in Shelbyville, says he is familiar with the stable and the trainer.
"That horse means a lot to them," Johnson said. "It's their friend, it's their pal. They give them their peppermints. It's part of a young girl's world."
Nosey Rosey's barn is now empty, and there's a small memorial set up in front. As the competition continues this week, pens and cards are set to the side so anyone can write well wishes to the recovering rider.
Officials say this was an isolated incident in horse show class 130. The horse will be taken to Lexington for necropsy and determination of death.
"We remain in contact with the family and hope for a speedy recovery,” said Ian Cox, spokesperson for the Kentucky State Fair, in a statement.
According to a schedule for the World's Championship Horse Show, the horse show class 130 was for "Equitation – Open Walk-Trot, Rider 9 Years Old."
The current condition of the child is unknown at this time.
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