Tributes are flowing after a teenage equestrian star died just days after her 16th birthday.

Lily Slattery died on October 5.

The teenager from Knock in County Mayo was a rising star in showjumping circles.

Earlier this year, Lily was crowned overall champion at the Irish National Showjumping awards, Mayo News reported.

And in 2025, the rising star won the Equestrian Award at the Connaught Telegraph Mayo Young Sportstars Awards.

Her cause of death has not been publicly revealed.

Equestrian events across the region were cancelled over the weekend in honour of Lily.

Mourners gathered at a church in Knock to farewell the teenager at a funeral service on Friday.

Dublin Live reported that Lily’s sister Morgan-Mai delivered an emotional eulogy, which started with expressing her gratitude to emergency services, medical staff, and the community.

“It is so difficult to stand here today and try and find the words to describe Lily and Lily would have hated me doing so - as she hated any attention. So Lily, I’m sorry,” she said.

Lily’s sister reminisced on her “thoughtful and smart” sister, who she joked knew everything “horsey-related”.

Morgan-Mai said that Lily loved her horses and would always opt to spend time with them over anything else.

“Today, we aren’t saying goodbye to Lily but ‘see you, later’,” she continued.

“Lily, I hope you are at peace now and I can’t wait to hear that contagious laugh and see your beautiful smile again.

“Don’t cry because she is gone but smile because she was here.

“We all love you so much. Until we meet again, Lily.”

At the funeral, attendees were provided with navy ribbons, the teenager’s favourite colour.

On social media, tributes have been flowing for Lily.

Showjumping Ireland offered their condolences on Instagram.

“Lily was a much-loved member of our showjumping community, and her passion, talent and wonderful spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her,” they wrote.

Showjumping Ireland Connaught Region shared a tribute on Facebook, accompanied by several images of Lily and her horse.

“Everyone at Connaught Showjumping was shocked and deeply saddened to hear of the untimely passing of our dear friend, Lily,” the post read.

“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.”

The sport’s national governing body, Horse Sports Ireland, also honoured the “talented competitor”, Lily.

“We hope they can take comfort and solace in the outpouring of affection from the Irish equestrian community for Lily at this heartbreaking time,” the Facebook post read.