Horse trainer hospitalised after terrifying accident: “My whole eyelid came off”

A Swedish amateur horse trainer suffered serious injuries during a training exercise earlier this week, highlighting the inherent risks involved in equestrian sports. Torbjörn Johansson, 65, was hospitalized after being thrown from his carriage during a routine training run with his ten-year-old gelding, Hermes T.M.

A Sudden Fall

The incident occurred on Monday when Johansson was training near Strömstad. According to Johansson, an animal ran into their path, causing the horse to react suddenly. This abrupt movement resulted in the carriage overturning and ejecting Johansson. He found himself alone in the woods after the fall, with his horse having bolted from the scene.

Severe Injuries and a Lengthy Search

The impact of the fall was significant. Johansson sustained a severe eye injury, describing his eyelid as being completely detached. Despite the pain and blood loss, he remained conscious for nearly six hours before help arrived. He initially attempted to locate his horse himself, but was unsuccessful.

Did You Know? Torbjörn Johansson only obtained his training licence in 2018, the same year as Swedish high jumper Patrik Sjöberg.

Johansson contacted his wife, who was able to locate and retrieve him. A search was then launched for Hermes T.M., involving drones and thermal imaging, but proved initially unsuccessful. Fortunately, Johansson’s landlord, a local firefighter, mobilized colleagues who were ultimately able to locate the horse, which had become stuck in the woods.

A Fortunate Outcome

Despite the severity of his injuries, Johansson considers himself lucky. Medical professionals indicated that his eye injury was particularly serious, but he is expected to recover. Hermes T.M. Sustained only minor swelling to his hoof and was not seriously injured.

Expert Insight: Incidents like this underscore the unpredictable nature of working with animals, even during routine training. The quick thinking of Johansson to contact his wife, and the subsequent coordinated search effort, were crucial in ensuring a positive outcome for both the trainer and the horse.

Johansson, a recently retired trainer with two horses, expressed gratitude for the assistance he received from his wife, neighbours, and the local fire department.

Frequently Asked Questions

What caused the accident?

According to Johansson, the accident was caused by a sudden reaction from his horse after an animal ran into their path during a training run.

How serious were Johansson’s injuries?

Johansson suffered a severe eye injury, describing his eyelid as being completely detached. He also experienced blood loss but remained conscious throughout the ordeal.

How was the horse found?

After initial search efforts proved unsuccessful, Johansson’s landlord, a firefighter, mobilized colleagues who used drones to locate the horse, which had become stuck in the woods.

What steps can trainers take to mitigate risks during training exercises?