Showjumper Claire Lithgow battled back after almost being paralysed

DESPITE a horror fall seven years ago which almost left her paralysed, Lanark's Claire Lithgow continued to compete at showjumping events before eventually having to quit to pursue a successful modelling career.
By The Newsroom
Published 13th Jan 2010, 12:27 BST

Claire (26), of Wellgate, earned national showjumping recognition despite a terrifying incident when riding Tandeto Day at a Horse of the Year Show qualifier in Wales.

"My horse galloped up to a big water jump," Claire said.

"But it slid in the water and cartwheeled three times. It was the most terrifying experience of my life.

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"When I woke up in hospital the next morning, I felt as if I was paralysed. I was crying, because the pain was unbelievable and worse than anything I'd ever had in my life.

"I was crying, because I'd paid 500 to go to the British under-21 Derby at Hickstead two days later and knew that my participation there was in serious doubt.

"I thought it was the end of my dream."

But, in an incredible display of courage, Claire DID compete at Hickstead after taking painkillers and finished sixth out of over 200 riders on her Belgian-bred horse Tiptronic.

For more information on this article, see this week's Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.

Related topics:HicksteadWalesDerby