U.S. Equestrian Federation expels Aiken woman after horse death

An Aiken equestrian, Shannon Eckel, has been expelled from the U.S. Equestrian Federation, effective May 16, following the death of a horse in 2021. The expulsion stems from the death of Irish Sport Horse Cobain, who died at Eckel's farm after refusing to load into a trailer. The federation cited Eckel's failure to provide adequate care, including veterinary attention, as contributing to the horse's death. Eckel's attorney called the decision a victory, stating the death was unintentional. Eckel is eligible to apply for reinstatement in six months. A defamation lawsuit filed by Eckel against individuals who commented on the horse's death is ongoing.