Send thoughts and Prayers to Ricardo Amaya

[Bellafarms]

Sothern California Dressage rider Ricardo Amaya suffered head injuries this afternoon schooling a young horse. Please send your thoughts and Prayers to him and his wife and two young sons he is in grave condition. He is a special man and devoted rider, father and husband and friend to many here in So California. God Bless you Ricardo!

[ctanner]

Prayers sent.

[veezee]

He and his family are in our prayers.

[OnCue]

Oh no. Any updates?

[Roulett]

Oh no. Any updates?


I don't have any updates other than everyone at our barn (Hidden Valley Ranch) where Ricardo trains along with my own H/J trainer are all praying for Ricardo. I wasn't at the barn when the accident happened but I was told today that he may have been schooling without a helmet but I don't know that as a fact. This is such a heart breaking accident.

If I get any updates -- I will pass them along.

Angelique

[Windriderr]

Oh, this is just awful. He is such a nice person and kind to people and horses alike. The judges I have scribed for just love his soft ways of training and riding.

[Kimberlee]

Prayers and jingles from Texas.

[Horsepower]

My sincere prayers go out to him and his family.

[Coreene]

Roulett, while I am sure that your post was meant with only best wishes in mind, but I would not post any medical information about anyone without permission from that person or their family.

Prayers for Ricardo.

[Funckyfilly]

http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2008/mar/27/no-headline---nxxfcamaya28/

[sidepasser]

Prayers sent for his recovery and for his family, what a very tragic accident.

Sidepasser

[Bellafarms]

I just left the Hospital family and Friends are with Ricardo and wife Maria. Ricardo was doing what he loved he is passionate for his Horses and the art of Dressage. A fund has been set up for anyone interested its the Ricardo Amaya Family Fund C/O Janice Romersa 24232 Long Valley Rd. Hidden Hills Ca. 91302
God Bless you Colombia's Son!

[etk]

I just heard about this at the Burbank CDI - terrible news! Jingling for him & his family.

[Roulett]

Roulett, while I am sure that your post was meant with only best wishes in mind, but I would not post any medical information about anyone without permission from that person or their family.

Prayers for Ricardo.


I have deleted the post.

[cottagefarm]

Prayers to Ricardo and his family.

It's been a rough year for the equine community so far !

[Sobriska]

On UBB it was reported that Ricardo passed away. Does anyone know if that is true?
:(
Prayers for his family and friends.

[merrygoround]

Whatever the answer, someone out there needs a whole lot of support. My sympathy is minor but I offer it!

[Roulett]

On UBB it was reported that Ricardo passed away. Does anyone know if that is true?
:(
Prayers for his family and friends.

it's not true .........

[SBrentnall]

It seems to be true. I just got an email from someone who was at the show today, and they said that he was taken off life support around noon today. So sad. :(

[sidepasser]

Who was it said: "reports of my death have been greatly exaggerated."

As of last night I do believe Mr. Amaya was still counted among the living.

Sidepasser

[Kathy Johnson]

Mark Twain's quote. My thoughts and prayers to Ricardo's family.

[chechebell]

Ricardo passed away peacefully yesterday afternoon after his family flew in from Columbia. He was taken off life support. God speed Ricardo.

Please let this be a lesson for all equestrians that wearing a helmet is extremely important. It is reported that Ricardo was the only one on the property at the time of the accident. Our barn has a rule in the boarding agreement that "No rider shall be on the property alone without wearing proper riding gear and helmet while engaging in riding their mount."

This is an extremely unfortunate accident but just maybe it could have been avoided it Ricardo was wearing a helmet. His injuries were due to not wearing any type of head gear. Head injuries are the number one death rate among equestrians. My heart goes out to his family and hopefully it is a reminder to all that we need to wear our helmets especially when riding along. :cry:

[veezee]

That is so sad.:( Sending prayers to his family.

[DownYonder]

I am so sorry - sounds like he was a wonderful person and horseman. My deep condolences to his family and friends. :cry:

[js]

How tragic, my prayers are with his family.

[jkt1026]

Condolences all around. How terrible.

I took a horrible dive last fall and fortunately walked away with scrapes bruises and a dislocated shoulder - I did hit my head on the arena wall and I think the only thing that didn't make that worse was my helmet. Hearing a story like this really makes me remember why I absolutely always wear my helmet.

[Ambrey]

This is so sad :(

[Windriderr]

The local dressage club, DASC, (Dressage Assoc. of Southern California) has set up an on-line form to send his family notes/messages and the option of donating on-line.

http://www.dressageassn.com/

[Bellafarms]

Ricardo was not alone on the ranch riding, he was alone in the ring.This also was his 47th birthday and 16th wedding annversery. When the accident took place. He still is in the Hospital. His family is with him . His wife Maria has not left his side since this accident occurred. If you want to know who this man is read his bio on Amayafarms.com. The Ventura county Star has a story also about him today in there paper. He is a sweet heart, and such a great human being. A true gentleman. Everyone who knows him is broken hearted right now. Thanks for all the kind words.

[Roulett]

Ricardo was not alone on the ranch riding, he was alone in the ring.This also was his 47th birthday and 16th wedding annversery. When the accident took place. He still is in the Hospital. His family is with him . His wife Maria has not left his side since this accident occurred. If you want to know who this man is read his bio on Amayafarms.com. The Ventura county Star has a story also about him today in there paper. He is a sweet heart, and such a great human being. A true gentleman. Everyone who knows him is broken hearted right now. Thanks for all the kind words.
,

I don't know why people are saying Ricardo passed away, my trainer was at the hospital last night with his family. If you know the layout of our barn, you know that one can't see the rings from the barn area without moving to the back of the property and looking down into both the jumper and dressage ring. There were two grooms on the property at the
end of the day. My trainer was the last person to see Ricardo and wish him a happy birthday. Everybody who boards and trains at Hidden Valley Ranch loves Ricardo. Never an unkind word from this man .. always a big smile on his face. we used to talk about when he did jumpers. I guess I'm in denial, I don't want it to be so.

the groom who called 911 is devastated.

[Jumperprincess]

why do people insist on riding without helmets? How many people need to die or suffer traumatic brain injuries before they get it. I will keep his family in my prayers.

[Sabovee]

Where can we find some solid info on his status?

There are so many reports that he's passed, and first handers saying he hasn't - which I tend to lend more merit to. You'd think it would be in the press (as his accident was) if he had passed away.

Updates from those on hand at his barn would be appreciated.

[SBrentnall]

This update was published in yesterday's local paper. It says he was alive as of Thursday night.

http://www.venturacountystar.com/news/2008/mar/28/elite-horse-trainer-critically-injured/

[Horsepower]

The comments about the no helmet makes me ask a question I have been wondering about for a long time as a former hunter rider. Why do they use top hats and other hats without straps in the dressage world? I've always wondered why they seem to assume that horrible accidents can't happen in dressage and why they don't also impose stricter helmet rules in the dressage world.

[Jumperprincess]

worse yet, are the western riders(especially the kids). I love and trust all my horses but the bottom line is they are an ANIMAL, aqnd a big one at that!!

[Roulett]

Where can we find some solid info on his status?

There are so many reports that he's passed, and first handers saying he hasn't - which I tend to lend more merit to. You'd think it would be in the press (as his accident was) if he had passed away.

Updates from those on hand at his barn would be appreciated.


I just left the barn, Ricardo remains in critical condition but he has surpassed those who though he wouldn't make it past 24 hours.

A glimmer of hope remains. My trainer has been at
the hospital every day and everyone at our barn is hanging on every word from the hospital. Ricardo's other brothers will be arriving soon, his students were working their horses in the dressage ring today. We have 4 trainers here at the barn including Ricardo and everyone is checking in with the doctor's 24/7. We are a close group at Hidden Valley Ranch and everyone is helping out and doing what they can.

[Horsepower]

Keeping my fingers crossed and prayers coming.

[Bellafarms]

Ricardo can never be the man he once was. The damage is to great. He is a beautiful person and a gift to all that know him. His family and wifes family are with him. His friends will pick up the pieces. Since he was the bread winner and was making it all happen for his wife and two young sons, a show barn, a home, horses etc. His family will need help. The costs are great. Please give if you can. A Fund has been set up. Its the Ricardo Amaya family fund C/O Janice Romersa 24232 Long Valley Rd. Hidden Hills Ca. 91302. Thanks.

[Classical DQ]

Have you read Dressage Daily today? Does anyone know the truth about his condition?

[TeddyRocks]

Sending thoughts and prayers to him and his family. So sad.:cry:

God be with them all in this time of great diffuculty.

[Roulett]

Have you read Dressage Daily today? Does anyone know the truth about his condition?


I don't know what Dressage today is saying but here's what I can tell you. My trainer,
Jorge Ludwig, has Ricardo's family members staying at his home. He goes with them
to the hospital, talks to the doctors on their check-ins daily. Ricardo as of this AM
remains in very critical condition in ICU. The fact that he is still with us gives us all
the little glimmer of hope that he will survive.

[Roulett]

I don't know what Dressage today is saying but here's what I can tell you. My trainer,
Jorge Ludwig, has Ricardo's family members staying at his home. He goes with them
to the hospital, talks to the doctors on their check-ins daily. Ricardo as of this AM
remains in very critical condition in ICU. The fact that he is still with us gives us all
the little glimmer of hope that he will survive.

I would like to add that family members are aware of everyone's good wishes, hopes
and prayers from Coth and the ABH forums.

[Bellafarms]

Dressage Daily is incorrect. They where given a number to call on Thursday to verify any information about Ricardo and the correct info about the fund that was set up for him. They never called to verify. The article is not accurate. Although he is on Life support and most likely wont survive. He has not officially passed.

[Roulett]

Dressage Daily is incorrect. They where given a number to call on Thursday to verify any information about Ricardo and the correct info about the fund that was set up for him. They never called to verify. The article is not accurate. Although he is on Life support and most likely wont survive. He has not officially passed.

Why do I get the feeling that nobody is listening to us. Calls are coming in with condolences and the man is still alive. Will somebody
please post on those other online dressage forums the facts. I''m not a dressage person and don't know where to find those
forums.

[poltroon]

Head injuries are of course very terrible, but they're also somewhat unpredictable. I had a friend who had a grave head injury and things looked quite grim the first few days, but she pulled through and eventually got back to showing her horse (the one that injured her) again. The doctors will do their best to support his body and health so that it can heal itself. It may take time to see if it can.

Best wishes to Ricardo and his family.

[rebecca yount]

I sent an email to the reporter who wrote the DressageDaily story (Lyndee Kemmet) and also send a cc to Mary Phelps-Hathaway, telling them they might want to check their facts. I also sent a link to this thread.

I am sorry for what happened and that they are not getting the facts correct. (I am not connected with them but know Mary more than I know Lyndee). There are sometimes errors on the stories--even spelling errors. ry

[Xhltsalute]

We've all heard the remarkable recovery stories of TBI/coma victims but this one really hit home, as it was on NBC Dateline Friday night and I immediately thought of both Ricardo and Darren.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23849928/

[slc2]

the guideline i got years ago (before the head trauma protocols changed to rapidly control inflammation and release pressure immediately, rather than 'wait and see' esp with more severe injuries) was ... every head injury is a unique case. no two people's progress will be the same, no two people's recovery will be the same....so i never make any assumptions that the stories are accurate or that one injury is like another. i think it's very difficult for media and internet sites to understand what's going on medically or to know whch thing they hear is right.

this has been a spring that has had a number of serious injuries to riders, i'ts very sad.

[Bellafarms]

Well I can tell you that Ricardo was a profound individual. And on this day he had told a very close friend and student that he hadnt felt as elated as he had on this day. That things where going so well for him. That he was making it in life living his dreams. Ricardo loved, loved horses and every aspect of them. He is someone who took time to smell the flowers and enjoy life. He is someone that I always thought of as being very happy. I would love to again hear his rich Colombian voice.

[Alpha Mare]

Sending thoughts and prayers to Ricardo and his family. fyi, some folks are mistaking the spelling of the university for the country - the country has no 'u'.

Not meant to distract from the situation, simply to get the prayers in the right place.

[HorsNAround]

Having a family member that suffered a TBI in a car wreck I can tell you it was devastating to our family emotionally and of course financially, and it makes you wonder how far Doctors should go. What kind of quality of life are you bringing someone back to? I saw people at the Rehab facilitly who were just shells. One man in a wheel chair who the most he could dow as sit up in the chair, but be bent over so far that his chin rested on his knees. There was no one there.

Is there any truth to what was said that Mr. Amaya also suffered a broken neck as well?

My heart goes out to his family, I know what they are going through.

I can only hope that this man-who people only have nice things to say about- will make a FULL recovery to the person he was before the accident.

J. Wilson

[slc2]

It's very hard to say what the person would want or how 'present' they are, and it's impossible to generalize as to what lifestyle an active person would want if hurt. each person is different.

Many people who say 'i would not want to live with any limitations' change their outlook when they wind up with a limitation. each person's choice is right for them and their family.

I know from working with brain injured people that an onlooker can NEVER tell how 'present' a person is or what they feel.

the road back is a long one and no matter how far along that road a person gets they always are a person, and always...always...present. no matter how far they get, even if they are called away before they come all the way back on that road those close to them can still feel all that love for them and try to guide them as best they can thru every step that is given.

what a person contributes to the world, cannot be measured by how they sit in a chair or if they ride or not, but by how they love and are loved.

There are great and incredible people who we don't have the privilege of having here with us for very long...it just means we have to love them all the more while they are with us.

[Ambrey]

The amazing thing about the brain is that other areas can take over the function of the damaged areas. It's very difficult to tell how much function will be regained by a TBI patient. Don't give up hope until all brain functions are gone.

[poltroon]

Having a family member that suffered a TBI in a car wreck I can tell you it was devastating to our family emotionally and of course financially, and it makes you wonder how far Doctors should go. What kind of quality of life are you bringing someone back to?

The trick is, you don't know until you try. With my friend, the paramedics thought her injury was so serious that they didn't seem in any particular hurry to get her to the hospital, and yet, if you met her today, you'd have no idea what she went through.

[rebecca yount]

It looks like Dressage Daily took the story off.

[witherbee]

Those that have posted saying that Ricardo passed away should go back and edit those posts. I'm sure it's hurtful to friends and family to have rumors flying.... Condolences to the family and praying for a good outcome.

[BellaBecca]

Thank you for all your prayers and kind words. Wednesday was indeed a beautiful day and Ricardo was fabulously happy. I believe he never knew what hit him. Wouldn't we all like to go out with our boots on?

Thank you BellaFarms and Roulett for being so sensitive and accurate -- please keep it up.

Ricardo's family is overwhelmed by your love and support. They seem to be coping as well as possible -- very strong and wonderful people.

My request is that if you are wondering whether someone is okay, if you would be intruding by calling, if you want someone to know how you felt about Ricardo, even as an acquaintance, please, please call us. No, we are not okay. All we can do is think about him constantly so we are trying to keep busy, and a friend's phone call is the most precious thing right now.

What I'm told is that only his heart is still working.

[BellaBecca]

[QUOTE=HorsNAround;3111871]
Is there any truth to what was said that Mr. Amaya also suffered a broken neck as well?

No.

[BellaBecca]

I'm sure it's hurtful to friends and family to have rumors flying.... Condolences to the family and praying for a good outcome.

I was so happy to see this website and to discover how many people have been effected. I believe it is a very healthy way to deal with questions and rumors, and to vent frustrations.

Nobody I have spoken to is offended by what has been written -- it just shows how much of a shock this has been and how much people care.

Mornings are the worst, and looking at new postings help me to drag myself out of bed now.

Please continue to pray for the best possible outcome.

Love to you all from Becca

[slc2]

well this old gray haired agnostic is sure praying alot.

[BBowen]

Sending jingles and prayers to Mr. Amaya and his family. This is just so heartbreaking.

[Bellafarms]

I think that notes or thoughts are appropriate . Ricardos wife has much, to much to handle right now. His boys are going to be fine Ricardos brothers will show them and teach them what a fine example of mankind there Papa was. There Grandmothers are with them giving them love and support. Maria Ricardos wife needs so much support. Ricardo cannot survive his injuries.

[heatherherbertskinner]

Hi everyone,

I know I'm a bit late to this discussion. I am a friend of Maria's, we went to college together. Both Ricardo and Maria were at my wedding 8 years ago this May. The last time I saw Ricardo was at a Christmas party in Dec. I love talking to him. I could talk horses with him for hours. It is a passion we both had in common. I am primarily a Western rider so as I'm sure you all know helmets are reserved, in my mind, for jumping. Something I've not done since I was 14. I dont want to start in on this discussion though as I think it detracts from what is at hand. It is best left for a different time. But I will say that I've pulled the dusty box containing a helmet my mother bought for me one Christmas out of my closet. I distinctly remember rolling my eyes when I opened it. Now it will finally find its way to the barn.

This whole event has been devastating for me. It is hard to imagine what Maria and the rest of his family is feeling. I feel at a loss of what I can do and have been trying to find any way I might be able to make myself useful. I went to the hospital on Wed night after I heard the news trying to get any info on what happened. Friday I was trying to look into ways of starting a disaster fund when I came across information on what Janice (?) had set up.

It has been difficult because I have been getting my info from the other end, through Maria's studio. It would be nice to have both sides of friends come together. I was hoping that someone may have information of how to get a hold of Janice or have someone pass my info along to her. I think I met her briefly at Los Robles but wasn't in a proper frame of mind to exchange info. I know it is still relatively early in this tragedy but I would love to help and be involved in any sort of event that may take place. I've been trying to find any contact info for the barn for several days with to no avail. I know a Family fund is in place if any specific fund raiser is planned or ride takes place please contact me. I know it is likely Maria wont be working for a bit and I'm not sure how sympathetic mortgage companies are these days. This has to be a large financial stress on top of everything else.

heather (at) thelobby (dot) tv

[dsgshowmom]

This is an incredible tragedy and my thoughts and prayers go out to Ricardo and his family. Accidents with horses are always so tragic. He seems like he is a very well respected man, and an excellent dressage rider. I have a feeling this will resonate throughout the dressage community from coast to coast and reinforce safety issues.

I wish his wife Maria the best in the long days ahead. :(

[copper bay farm]

How very sad for everyone involved. :( Sending prayers to the family and for a peaceful passing for Mr. Amaya. He sounds like a very extraordinary person.

A reminder to never take a day or a moment for granted.

[Roulett]

Hi everyone,


I've been trying to find any contact info for the barn for several days with to no avail. I know a Family fund is in place if any specific fund raiser is planned or ride takes place please contact me.

heather (at) thelobby (dot) tv

Who are you trying to reach at the barn? We're in the same barn at Hidden valley ranch.
Jorge Ludwig has some of the family members at his home and has been taking care of
some of Ricardo's horses. Today is his day off --- I haven't had a chance to talk to him today but he does keep me informed. I can give you his phone number if you like.

[heatherherbertskinner]

Who are you trying to reach at the barn? We're in the same barn at Hidden valley ranch.
Jorge Ludwig has some of the family members at his home and has been taking care of
some of Ricardo's horses. Today is his day off --- I haven't had a chance to talk to him today but he does keep me informed. I can give you his phone number if you like.

Check your PM

[Jumperprincess]

heatherbirtskinner-THE ISSUE AT HAND IS BECAUSE HE WAS NOT WEARING A HELMET-A TRAGEDY THST COULD POSSIBLY HAVE BEEN AVOIDED, my prayers for his family

[Roulett]

Just a quick update --- last night Ricardo's vital signs dropped and blood pressure spiked,
the hospital quickly brough everything under control. His vital signs are OK for the moment. The family is getting second opinions from doctors at Cedars.

Ricardo's entire family is now here -- now comes the issue of the horses. I know that Ricardo has some very nice dressage horses and some may be going up for sale. Don't call Ricardo's cell phone -- his brother is only taking messages, not answering the phone at this time. Tomorrow there will be a meeting between the brothers and Jorge my trainer
as to the dispersal of horses and working with his students.

The young mare Ricardo was riding at the time of the accident will be going back to her
owner. This horse is not part of the possible sale horses.

That's all I know for now. Jorge is still at the hospital and this info comes by way of
him with permission to post.

Angelique

[Roulett]

I hope it was OK to say horses would be going up for sale! If not, I will ammend the post.

Angelique



Just a quick update --- last night Ricardo's vital signs dropped and blood pressure spiked,
the hospital quickly brough everything under control. His vital signs are OK for the moment. The family is getting second opinions from doctors at Cedars.

Ricardo's entire family is now here -- now comes the issue of the horses. I know that Ricardo has some very nice dressage horses and some may be going up for sale. Don't call Ricardo's cell phone -- his brother is only taking messages, not answering the phone at this time. Tomorrow there will be a meeting between the brothers and Jorge my trainer
as to the dispersal of horses and working with his students.

The young mare Ricardo was riding at the time of the accident will be going back to her
owner. This horse is not part of the possible sale horses.

That's all I know for now. Jorge is still at the hospital and this info comes by way of
him with permission to post.

Angelique

[BellaBecca]

I was trying to look into ways of starting a disaster fund when I came across information on what Janice (?) had set up.

I know a Family fund is in place if any specific fund raiser is planned or ride takes place please contact me. I know it is likely Maria wont be working for a bit and I'm not sure how sympathetic mortgage companies are these days. This has to be a large financial stress on top of everything else.


A fund has been set up for anyone interested. It is:
Ricardo Amaya Family Fund
C/O Janice Romersa
24232 Long Valley Rd.
Hidden Hills, CA 91302

Bless you Janice!

[BellaBecca]

Don't call Ricardo's cell phone -- his brother is only taking messages, not answering the phone at this time.


As of yesterday, his brothers were having trouble retrieving the cell messages on Ricardo's phone so please do not take it personally if you have tried to leave a message and it was not returned by Daniel.

[Kristen]

How unspeakably awful. I don't know anyone involved, but felt compelled to post anyway. To Maria and others: You must stay strong and don't lose hope. A member of my family (my aunt) was in the ICU for 4 months. We were told by doctors that she WOULD die, that she had ZERO chance of surviving and that her body was already shutting down. My mother had already lost a brother at the age of 20 and refused to give up on her sister, even when the DOCTORS were saying all was lost. Today, my aunt has some complications (only learned to drive a car again last month - several years after leaving the hospital, can not have children, has nerve damage in her legs which don't allow her to run, only walk unsteadily, etc) but she lives an otherwise normal life. The doctors say she is a medical miracle.

I don't want to give a false hope that this will just go away; it won't. You just can't give up, and I know how easy it can be in these situations to lose all hope. Hang in there, and know you have the support and prayers of the entire equine community.

[sidepasser]

I used this link http://www.dressageassn.com/ to make a donation through paypal for those that want to donate that way.

[Bellafarms]

Thanks to everyone! I will get Daniel....... Ricardos brother to read these messages if he hasnt already.

[honeydoozy]

I used this link http://www.dressageassn.com/ to make a donation through paypal for those that want to donate that way.

And you don't need a paypal account to do this... they'll accept major credit cards (Visa/MC/AMEX/echeck). Additionally, if you simply want to leave a message to the family, you can use this method to do that as well.

[jennyp]

I'm so moved by the caring posts in this Dressage thread about Ricardo from people who know him and people who don't. I met Ricardo, and consequently Maria, en route to his own dressage business when he came to work for my hunter/jumper barn. At the time, my hunter had a serious hunter career with a pro rider and Ricardo rode him between shows. I could tell when I watched them together that Ricardo's rides were a reward for a job well done.

This turn of events has made me reflect on my relationship with Ricardo, and I have the same reflection expressed by my friends who also know him. He is the nicest man on the planet, he's an extraordinary horseman, all horses ridden by Ricardo are happier, the greatest achievements in his life are his two sons, and the greatest love of his life is his wife, Maria. He also experiences a joy of life that few know: he does what he loves to do.

In honor of Ricardo, the way he lives his life, and his family, I'm writing here to ask you to help if you can by donating to the Ricardo Amaya Family Fund (Janice Romersa is an old and dear friend of Ricardo's) or through the DASC link (www.dascnet.com) that's shown up in this thread a couple of times.

Thank you!

Jenny Porter

[Roulett]

I used this link http://www.dressageassn.com/ to make a donation through paypal for those that want to donate that way.

It takes only a few second to donate ......... I hope everyone, all disciplines, will get
behind this and give what they can!

[PiaffeDreams]

More jingles and prayers from Nor. Cal.

I've never watched Ricardo ride, although I've been at some of the same shows. Seems sad to think we may not always take the time to watch other riders and only hear later such praise for them. I feel for his students who risk losing such a powerful mentor. We all have such limited time to share and learn between each other. Its a reminder to never take an opportunity for granted, and keep one's heart and mind open to experience the richness we can experience from the people we meet.

[dressager]

I have such very fond memories of Ricardo, having had the privilege of showing at the same shows and becoming somewhat acquainted with him at the shows, as well as knowing one of his students. He is a remarkable man, a very kind, sweet man who loved his family very much. He was stabled across from us at the last show... We had a bit of a laugh when I was clipping my young horse and he asked to try my clippers on his horse who hated the clippers- didn't make a difference at all, and we had a laugh over horses' dislikes. It is just devastating. His love for his horses was so apparent, and like a previous poster noted, I am sad that I never got to know him better than I did. I will, honestly, cherish those last times I spoke with him- and remember the first time I met Ricardo and his wife.

I was just stricken when I heard the news on Thursday morning when Cornerstone announced it over the loudspeaker at LAEC. He had become a fixture of sorts at the shows-

This news just leaves me empty- I wish it didn't have to happen to anyone, but especially, why to such an upstanding, wonderful, kind man?

My thoughts and prayers go out to his young children, wife, and family.

[Roulett]

The family is overwhelmed at the tremendous love and support coming from various forums, all breeds, hunters, jumpers, dressage
and trail people. What a great tribute to Ricardo. this AM, his condition remains critical but vital signs are stable.

[Coreene]

Sidepasser, thank you for that link, I just sent a donation.

[BellaBecca]

He is the nicest man on the planet
He's an extraordinary horseman
All horses ridden by Ricardo are happier
The greatest achievements in his life are his two sons
And the greatest love of his life is his wife, Maria.
He also experiences a joy of life that few know: he does what he loves to do.



If I could write as eloquently as you, that's what I would have said.

He made everyone he knew and worked with feel so special and loved.

[BellaBecca]

Ricardo passed away last night.

[Ambrey]

I am so sorry :(

[Merche2]

My most sincere condolences to the family and friends.

Happy rides in Heaven Ricardo!

[DownYonder]

I am so sorry, for his family, his horses, his students, and for all who had the honor of knowing him. May he rest in peace.

[BellaBecca]

I believe his fourth brother had just arrived in town and had a chance to say goodbye.

Thanks for taking care of us Ricardo -- love you!

Off to ride now...

[BellaBecca]

I'm told Ricardo passed away at 6:45 last night, very peacefully, and with his entire family nearby.

It's so hard to log onto this website -- I suspect that's because everyone is trying to read these blogs.

Get off the Internet and go ride your horse!

Ricardo would say, "Stop fooling around!"

Can't you hear him?

[Bellafarms]

Beautiful, beautiful man, we where given a gift that was not ours to keep. You where such a darling. Rest in peace handsome. We will do everything we can do to help Maria and your boys.

[sidepasser]

My condolences to his family and many friends during this very hard time. I hope that all can take comfort in the many prayers and jingles coming to them from across the country.

kindest regards,
sidepasser

[Coreene]

So very sad to hear this. His family remains in our prayers.

[Roulett]

Rest well Ricardo, in one second in time, you touched the hearts of everyone from the Hunter/Jumper world, the Dressage world and the Arabian world. We shall never forget you.

From everyone at Jorge Ludwig Stables,
Healy Farms (Jane and Bennett)
and all those who board at Hidden Valley Ranch ............ you are with us forever.

[MintHillFarm]

I am so sorry for all who knew and loved him.
His much loved family, devoted friends and treasured horses are in my thoughts...

[Horsepower]

My sincere condolences to all. He sounds like he was a very special man who touched the lives of all who knew him.

[jennyp]

I'm told Ricardo passed away at 6:45 last night, very peacefully, and with his entire family nearby.

It's so hard to log onto this website -- I suspect that's because everyone is trying to read these blogs.

Get off the Internet and go ride your horse!

Ricardo would say, "Stop fooling around!"

Can't you hear him?

BellaBecca, thanks for sharing the news. We are sad and will miss him, but the horses in heaven must be happy because you know he's with them!

[cottagefarm]

Condolences to family and friends of Ricardo.
The posts here indicate that he was a lovely person and talented horseman.
He leaves a lot of precious memories for those that loved him.

Prayers for all his loved ones.

[Oakstable]

How very sad.
Does anyone know what happened?

[Mardi]

My sincerest condolences to his family.

[dsgshowmom]

Beautiful, beautiful man, we where given a gift that was not ours to keep. You where such a darling. Rest in peace handsome. We will do everything we can do to help Maria and your boys.

I want to give my sincere condolences to Ricardo's family. I don't know them at all, but this story has moved me completely.

I would bet, that in a few short months that Dressage Today will have an article about this man, and his life. I saw briefly that Lilo Fore had such great words for this man before it was taken down from Dressage Daily, I surely hope that a good tribute to him is forthcoming on that site as well as maybe a blurb in the COTH Mag.

I wish the best for his family, colleagues, and students at this time.

[BellaBecca]

Someone is writing an article for Dressage Today -- great minds think alike.

[Davignport]

My condolences and prayers to all of Ricardo's family. He sounded like the type of man that the horse world needs more of. It seems the special ones always go way too early..

[BellaBecca]

A fund has been set up for Ricardo's family.

To donate, please make your check out to "Ricardo Amaya Family Fund" and send it to:

Ricardo Amaya Family Fund
C/O Janice Romersa
24232 Long Valley Road
Hidden Hills, CA 91302

Thank you so much Janice for all the effort you have put into making this happen.

[Roulett]

How very sad.
Does anyone know what happened?


there were no eyewitnesses to the accident.

[Mitzi]

I want to express my deepest sympathy for your tragic loss.

[Wanderluster]

I want to express my deepest sympathy for your tragic loss.

I am still in a state of disbelief. Ricardo I wore my helmet to hack today ;)
something that I often omit on the flat.
God bless and keep his family through this tragic time.

[Bellafarms]

Saturday we will honor his life. Say goodbye. Cherish those times we spent together. Miss him always.

[dressager]

BellaFarms-
Is there anything we can do? I board in Hidden Valley as well and as mentioned early, knew him from the shows and such... we will all miss his spirit and gentle manner. Anything planned at Hidden Valley Ranch or ?

[BellaBecca]

That would be nice.

[Bellafarms]

Oh Ricardo you are so missed. Thinking of you.

[J Swan]

My condolences.

I'm told Ricardo passed away at 6:45 last night, very peacefully, and with his entire family nearby.

It's so hard to log onto this website -- I suspect that's because everyone is trying to read these blogs.

Get off the Internet and go ride your horse!

Ricardo would say, "Stop fooling around!"

Can't you hear him?