‘Harriet was full of life in every possible way – caring, funny, talented, determined, with a smile and an infectious laugh that could lift anyone’s spirits’

Tributes have been paid to a young Tipperary woman who died following an accident recently, and which has shocked the world of show jumping.

Harriet Penfold, 21, of Dromard beg, Clonmore, Templemore, died on Friday, November 21, surrounded by her family. She is mourned by her mother Joanna, dad Gerald, sister Zoe, brothers Oliver and James, grandmother Elizabeth, uncle Jeffrey, aunts Nicola, Claire, Tracey and Alona, close friends and neighbours.

Rachel Lyons shared the devastating news on Friday on behalf of the Penfold family. “Our beautiful Harriet has peacefully passed away, surrounded by her mum Jo, dad Ger, her little sister Zoe and her brother Oliver — a room filled with heartbreak, love, and memories that will be treasured for the rest of our lives.

“Harriet was full of life in every possible way — caring, funny, talented, determined, with a smile and an infectious laugh that could lift anyone’s spirits. She had a natural warmth that drew people in, and she made friends effortlessly, touching lives in ways she never realised.

“As a sister, she loved with her whole heart. She had a way of convincing Zoe or Oliver to do things even when they knew Mum and Dad might not approve, and those moments are now treasured memories. She was always someone you could turn to — for advice, a laugh, a chat, or simply the comfort only she could give.

“As our daughter, our miracle she couldn’t have made us more proud. With her mum, she shared endless conversations, laughter, and a deep, intuitive closeness.

“With her dad, she shared strength, humour, and that stubborn determination that always made us smile. From the moment she arrived, Harriet filled our world with joy.

“She gave her whole heart to everything she did, and her love for life made even ordinary days feel special. She was thoughtful in all the small, beautiful ways — the quick hugs, the quiet check-ins, the way she noticed when someone was struggling.

“Her kindness, courage, and gentle spirit made her our bright, beautiful girl, and she gave us more love and pride than we could ever have asked for.

“As a friend, all who attended the prayer service and the outpouring of messages says it all. She connected with people so naturally and will be remembered as a loyal, funny, loving friend to so many. Thank you to the hospital staff and everyone who helped Harriet at the scene. We are forever grateful.

“We know that her light, her joy, her beautiful infectious laugh and love will stay with us forever.”

Tributes have been paid from across the showjumping community. Greg Broderick Ballypatrick Stables, based in Thurles, extended their condolences to the family.

“An incredibly sad day for the Penfold family, for all Harriet’s friends and the whole equestrian community. We were so lucky to have Harriet work with us at Ballypatrick for four years and what an impression she left on everyone here.

“She was simply part of our extended family and everyone knew we could trust her 100pc as a colleague and a friend. What a fabulous girl. A breath of fresh air. She loved horses so much and always so positive and determined. She took every piece of help she was given rolled up her sleeves and put it into practice straight away.

“Always trying to make herself and the horses she worked with better but at the same time always so supportive of everyone around her.

“Her parents Ger and Jo could be so proud to have raised such a fabulous girl that was simply so genuine. A loving sister to Oliver and little sister Zoe. She left a mark on us all that won’t be forgotten. We will remember her smiling because that’s how she always was.

“Thank you for everything Harriet. We will miss you very much,” added Greg Broderick Ballypatrick Stables.

Harriet’s removal took place on Friday morning, November 28, to St. Mary’ Church Templemore with interment in Killavanogue Cemetery Clonmore afterwards.