Pan American Games eventing medalist Patrick “Packy” McGaughan, 56, died in his sleep yesterday.
He began his career as a young rider in the late 1970s and went on to compete at the North American Young Rider Championships. He was rider in residence at the U.S. Equestrian Team from 1981 to 1982 under the guidance of coach Jack LeGoff.
In 1987, he rode on the U.S.gold medal team at the Pan American Games in Indianapolis, where he also earned the bronze medal individually. He graduated from Duke University in North Carolina and in 1991 from the University of Maryland School of Law.
A popular instructor in Area II, Packy operated Banbury Cross Farm in Clarksburg, Maryland. The farm was developed into a top training, breeding and boarding facility, specializing in eventing, dressage, hunters, and equitation. Packy produced numerous horses and riders to the highest level of the sport. He was a well-regarded instructor in Area II for juniors, amateurs, and professionals.