Heartfelt tributes for riding champion Sarah Rose Beltz who died from meningococcal disease

TRIBUTES are flowing for the young Hobart equestrian champion who died from meningococcal disease last week.

TRIBUTES are flowing for the young Hobart equestrian champion who died from meningococcal disease last week.

Tributes have been placed in today’s Mercury by loved ones of Sarah Rose Beltz, who turned 16 last month.

They describe her as a loved and respected member of Tasmania’s equestrian community, who enjoyed life and brought joy to everyone she met.

Sarah’s mother Belinda posted an emotional tribute on social media at the weekend, remembering her “little island girl”.

“July 12, 2018 will forever be the worst day of our lives,” the post reads. “The loss of our gorgeous, beautiful 16-year-old baby girl, lost to a deadly disease. We are so very proud of the impact and influence our baby had on others.

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“Her farewell will be what she would have wanted — a party to celebrate her life.”

The funeral will be held in South Hobart on Friday.

Mrs Beltz spoke of Sarah’s passion for horse riding, saying she loved her ponies Mintie and Nigs with her whole heart.

Sarah Rose Beltz died in the Royal Hobart Hospital

Sarah won the Open Small Show Hack of the Year class during the Show Horse of the Year competition in Launceston this year.

She also represented Tasmania in the national ring.

In a notice published in the Mercury today, Equestrian Tasmania said Sarah would be deeply missed.

Sarah’s friends paid respect on Facebook.

“My heart is broken, you were such an amazing, cheerful and happy person and you always made everyone around you so happy,” one posted.

“We are all going to miss you so much Sarah Beltz, keep on riding high up there and we will always be thinking of you.”

Another said: “Your sudden passing has left a hole in the show horse community solely because of how loved you were. You worked hard for your success and deserved everything good that came your way.”

Mrs Beltz thanked those close to her daughter, as well as the state and national horsing community for their thoughts and condolences.