Nicholson undergoes neck surgery following fall

Andrew Nicholson has had surgery on his neck following a crashing fall at Gatcombe at the weekend (9 August).

Stable condition

Andrew was competing in the CIC3*when Cillnabradden Evo fell at the final fence.

Three ambulances were rushed to the scene and Andrew was taken to a hospital in Swindon. He was later transferred to John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford, which specialises in trauma.

The horse, who is called Gary at home, wasn’t injured in the fall.

A statement released by his family yesterday (11 August) said: “Andrew underwent surgery yesterday to repair the injury to his neck. The surgery went well and his condition is stable. Andrew is comfortable and has full range of movement.

“His family would like to thank the many well-wishers.”

Move up the grades

Evo was produced by Lucy Wiegersma and also competed by her fiancée Padraig McCarthy. Andrew then took over the ride on the nine-year-old last March.

The pair won their first event together in the intermediate at Aldon, and went on to quickly move up the grades, coming second in the CIC2* at Burnham Market just one month later and again at the CIC3* 8/9YO class at Blenheim last September.

Recent wins include the advanced at Weston Park in Apriland the Amlin PlusEventers’ Challenge at Hickstead at the end of last month.

‘Too fast’

Following his performance at Hickstead Andrew described the horse as a “winner”, but Mr Stickability admitted he had “tipped him up a few times trying to go too fast.”

“Barbury was his last event – I made a mistake and we ended up picking ourselves up,” said Andrew. “He’ll end up being a top horse, he’s just gone up the grades very quick.”

Update 14 August:

Andrew is continuing to make good progress following surgery to his neck and is now walking unaided.

According to a statement released today, the 54-year-old is looking forward to returning home where he will continue his recovery.

“Andrew is indebted to Mr Jeremy Reynolds, consultant spinal surgeon, and the rest of his surgical team at the John Radcliffe hospital, for their incredible skill in his treatment,’ the statement continued.

“He would also like to thank the nurses in the trauma unit for the fantastic care he has received.”

Andrew also thanked his many fans for their messages of “support and goodwill” which he has received from all around the world.