Touching tributes to much-loved Mayo showjumping star Lily Slattery
"She was an outstanding competitor with a natural instinct and connection with her horses."
Touching tributes are being paid to Lily Slattery, Drum, Knock, whose death has taken place.
The deceased was widely known and respected across the region as an exception young showjumping talent.
A tribute on the Facebook page of Showjumping Ireland Connaught Region stated: "Everyone at Connaught Showjumping was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the untimely passing of our dear friend, Lily.
"Lily was an exceptional competitor, whose determination and will to win defied her tender years.
"Every time she entered the arena, she gave it her absolute all and competed with such courage and passion.
"We will all miss her infectious smile and the joy she brought to those around her, but we will cherish the memories of Lily and hold her close in our hearts always.
"We extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Lily’s family and all those who loved her during this incredibly difficult time.
"May Lily rest in eternal peace."
The deceased was a recipient of a 2025 Young Mayo Sports Stars of the Year Award for her fine achievements during the year.
She outclassed rivals all over the country by qualified for the Dublin Horse Show in August 2025, jumping on Captain Candyman, owned and bred by her grandad Gabriel Slattery, Irishtown.
At 15 years of age, Lily was the youngest competitor in her category of young riders at that event.
The board of management, senior leadership team, staff and students of St. Louis Community School, Kiltimagh, have expressed their deepest sympathy to the Slattery and Byrne families on the sudden passing of Lily.
"Lily was a much loved, valued and cherished member of our school.
"Her warmth, kindness and presence enriched the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing her. As a school community, we are deeply saddened by her passing.
"At this time of immense grief, our thoughts and prayers are with all who loved Lily. May God grant you strength and comfort in the days and weeks ahead, and may the love and support of family, friends and the wider community sustain you through this most difficult time," the tribute added.
A tribute by Knock National School said: "Lily was a much-loved past pupil and a wonderful girl, whom we remember with great fondness.
"We are deeply saddened by her passing and hold her family in our thoughts and prayers at this heartbreaking time. She will always be remembered with affection by those who knew her at Knock NS.
"Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis."
A further tribute observed: "Lily was a credit to her family and to our sport of showjumping.
"She was an outstanding competitor with a natural instinct and connection with her horses. She will be sadly missed in the showjumping arenas across the country."
Predeceased by her grandmother Phil Slattery and uncle Barry Byrne, she is deeply regretted and always loved by her heartbroken parents Gillian and Christy, sisters Morgan-Mai and Ruth-Elle, grandparents Gabriel (Slattery), John and Mary (Byrne) aunts, uncles and all her much loved cousins, extended family and her many friends.
Heartfelt sympathy is extended to the bereaved family on their immeasurable loss.
Lily will repose in the Marian Funeral Home, Knock, on Thursday evening from 5 until 8 p.m.
Funeral will arrive at St John the Baptist Church, Knock, on Friday morning for Mass at 10.30 a.m. followed by burial in Knock Cemetery.
May her gentle soul rest in peace.