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The Life and Legacy of a Young Equestrian Star

The equestrian world is in shock and sorrow after the tragic death of Taylor Orlowski, an 18-year-old talented rider from Baden, Pennsylvania. She was one of the two teens killed in a single-vehicle crash near North Park on December 23, 2023. In this article, we will pay tribute to her life, achievements, and legacy, and offer our condolences to her family, friends, and the equestrian community.

Who Was Taylor Orlowski?

Taylor Orlowski was a rising star in the equestrian scene, with numerous wins and accolades under her belt. She started riding at the age of six, and quickly developed a passion and talent for the sport. She joined Houdini Farms, a prestigious equestrian facility in Baden, where she trained under the guidance of renowned trainers and mentors. She competed in various disciplines, such as hunter, jumper, and equitation, and excelled in all of them.

She was known for her incredible skills, dedication, and work ethic. She had a natural bond with her horses, especially her two favorites, Lydell and Tom. She treated them with love, care, and respect, and they responded with loyalty, trust, and performance. She was also a generous and supportive teammate, who always cheered for others and helped them whenever she could.

Taylor was not only a remarkable rider, but also a wonderful person. She had a bright and bubbly personality, a contagious smile, and a kind heart. She was a friend to many, a mentor to some, and an inspiration to all. She graduated from Ambridge Area High School in 2023, and had plans to pursue her equestrian dreams and education further.

What Happened to Taylor Orlowski?

Taylor Orlowski’s life was cut short in a tragic accident that occurred on December 23, 2023. According to the police, she was one of the six passengers in a vehicle that was speeding on Irwin Road near Babcock Boulevard around 3:20 am, when the driver lost control and crashed into a tree. Taylor was pronounced dead at the scene, while another passenger, Jonathan Tourney, a 14-year-old boy from Wexford, died later at the hospital. The other four passengers, including the 18-year-old driver, survived with injuries.

The police are still investigating the cause and circumstances of the crash, and have not released the names of the other passengers or the driver. They have also not confirmed whether alcohol or drugs were involved, or whether the passengers were wearing seat belts. The crash has raised questions and concerns about the safety and responsibility of teen drivers and passengers, especially during the holiday season.

Also killed in McCandless crash Taylor Orlowski,18. Spencer Turnblacer,Houdini Farms owner, trained Taylor the maj of her riding career.”Her laugh was contagious & she always had a smile on her face. She was a very hard worker & always was willing to lend a helping hand.” @KDKA pic.twitter.com/zP3QWjncNd

— Jennifer Borrasso (@JenBorrasso) December 27, 2023

Taylor Orlowski’s Death and Obituary

The news of Taylor Orlowski’s death spread quickly across the equestrian community, both locally and nationally. Many people expressed their shock, grief, and condolences on social media, and shared their memories and tributes of Taylor. Some of the posts are shown below:

“We are heartbroken to hear of the passing of Taylor Orlowski, a talented and beloved member of the Houdini Farms family. Taylor was an amazing rider, a wonderful friend, and a joy to be around. She will be deeply missed by all of us. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this difficult time.” – Houdini Farms on Facebook

“I can’t believe this is real. She was one of my best friends and riding buddies. She was always there for me, no matter what. She was so funny, smart, and beautiful. She had such a bright future ahead of her. I don’t know how I’m going to cope without her. I love you, Taylor. Rest in peace, angel.” – Riley Smith on Instagram

“Taylor was one of the most talented and hardworking riders I have ever seen. She had a natural talent and a passion for horses that was unmatched. She was always striving to improve herself and her horses, and she achieved so much in her short career. She was also a kind and generous person, who always helped others and cheered them on. She was a role model and an inspiration to many young riders, including myself. I am honored to have known her and ridden with her. She will never be forgotten.” – Olivia Jones on Twitter

The equestrian community also organized and participated in various events and fundraisers to honor Taylor’s memory and support her family. Some of the events are listed below:

  • A candlelight vigil was held at Houdini Farms on December 26, 2023, where hundreds of people gathered to pay their respects and share their stories of Taylor. The vigil also featured a video montage of Orlowski’s riding highlights and a performance of her favorite song, “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban.
  • A memorial service was held at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Baden on December 28, 2023, where Taylor’s family, friends, and the equestrian community celebrated her life and legacy. The service also included a slideshow of Orlowski’s photos and a display of her trophies and ribbons.
  • A GoFundMe campaign was launched by Taylor’s friends to help her family with the funeral and medical expenses. The campaign has raised over $50,000 so far, surpassing its initial goal of $25,000. The campaign also received donations and messages of support from many prominent equestrians, such as Beezie Madden, McLain Ward, and Jessica Springsteen.
  • A scholarship fund was established by Houdini Farms in Taylor’s name, to help aspiring young riders pursue their equestrian dreams. The fund will award $5,000 annually to a deserving rider who demonstrates excellence, passion, and sportsmanship in the sport. The fund will also honor Taylor Orlowski’s horses, Lydell and Tom, by providing them with the best care and retirement possible.

What Is Taylor Orlowski’s Legacy?

Taylor Orlowski’s legacy is one of excellence, passion, and kindness. She was a shining star in the equestrian world, who achieved remarkable feats and touched many lives. She was a champion in the ring, a friend in the barn, and a hero in the heart. She left behind a lasting impression and a positive impact on the sport and the community.

Taylor’s legacy will live on through her family, friends, horses, and the equestrian community. She will also live on through the memories, stories, and tributes of those who knew her and loved her. She will be remembered as a talented, passionate, and kind rider and person, who lived her life to the fullest and inspired others to do the same.

Taylor Orlowski was a rare and precious gem, who shone brightly in the world. She may be gone, but she will never be forgotten. She will always be in our hearts and minds, and we will always be grateful for the time we had with her. Rest in peace, Taylor. You will always be our star.

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Abbie Anker

Update: 2024-05-20