Tragedy struck the Dorset equestrian community when Geraldine White, 76, suffered fatal injuries after falling from her horse during an endurance event.
Friends and colleagues have described the incident as a heartbreaking “freak accident.”
The Accident on a Remote Bridleway
On October 25, Mrs White was participating in a long-distance ride near Moreton, Dorset, riding her horse, Emeer.
Eyewitnesses said she was thrown over the horse’s shoulder when it slipped and fell to its knees on a secluded part of the trail.
Fellow competitors immediately rushed to her aid before paramedics arrived, and she was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital.
Despite intensive medical care, Mrs White tragically passed away five days later.
A Lifelong Passion for Endurance Riding
Geraldine’s dedication to endurance riding spanned decades.
She competed in countless long-distance events and was widely regarded as a stalwart of the sport.
Wessex Endurance GP shared a heartfelt statement on behalf of her husband, Roger, and close friends, Yvette and Heather, honoring her legacy.
“Please join us in remembering this amazing lady who has been a stalwart of endurance for a very long time,” the statement read.
“She was airlifted to Southampton, but despite the best efforts of the superb medical team, she never regained consciousness.”
Friends Remember Her Generosity and Spirit
Heather Giles, chair of the Dorset Long Distance Walking Association, recalled Geraldine’s infectious positivity.
“Geraldine was one of the most generous people I have ever met,” Heather said.
“Always cheerful, always upbeat, and very competitive—whether as an estate agent, an endurance rider, or on a challenge walk.
She was integral to my life, and I will miss her desperately.”
Friends and family find some comfort in knowing that Geraldine passed away doing what she loved, surrounded by the autumn landscape and the camaraderie of fellow riders.
Workplace Tributes Highlight Her Kindness and Dedication
Colleagues at Greenslade Taylor Hunt, where Geraldine worked as assistant manager at their Chard residential office, paid tribute to her professionalism and warmth.
“It is with enormous sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of our esteemed and much-loved colleague Geraldine White,” a spokesperson said.
“She was a highly valued and loyal member of our firm, joining us in 1993, and continued to perform at the very top of her game right up to the present day.
She will be deeply missed by everyone who had the privilege of working with her.”
Social Media and Community Remember Geraldine
The online endurance community also shared their condolences, celebrating Geraldine’s impact on the sport.
Greg Bell wrote, “Condolences to all who knew her, a loss to the Endurance world. At least she went doing what she loved.”
Karen Whittington added, “[She was] such an amazing lady, one of the first Wessex members I met back in the 90s who encouraged me to run Ride the Wight. She will be missed.”
A Legacy of Passion and Kindness
Geraldine White’s life reflected her love for horses, her competitive spirit, and her generosity.
While her passing leaves a profound void in the endurance and local communities, the memories she created—on the trails, in her office, and among friends—will endure.