Mark Wahlberg’s 15-year-old daughter, Grace, was hospitalized after a horseback riding injury during a competition in California over the weekend, but she is recovering well and expected to return to riding soon, according to family representatives.
The incident occurred on Saturday at the Desert Horse Park in Thermal, California, where Grace was competing as an equestrian. She suffered the injury mid-competition, which led to her being hospitalized. Details of the exact injury have not been confirmed, but she was seen in a hospital bed with an arm sling in photos she shared on social media.
On Monday, Grace posted a series of photos on Instagram, including one of her in the hospital, with the caption, “No pressure we will be back.” The post also included action shots from the competition, showing her on horseback and in her equestrian uniform. Her followers, including celebrities and family members, flooded the comments with wishes for a speedy recovery.
Mark Wahlberg commented on her post with prayer hands, crying face, and broken heart emojis, showing his support. His wife, Rhea Durham, commented, “No doubt kid,” and later shared additional photos from the competition on her own Instagram, revealing that Grace had placed in events on three different horses. Durham also posted a message saying, “Sometimes I just look up, smile and say, ‘I know that was you,'” expressing gratitude.
In a statement to the New York Post, Wahlberg confirmed that Grace is “doing well and recuperating, she will be back to riding soon.” He added, “My family and I appreciate everyone’s well wishes.” This reassurance came after Grace expressed her frustration on TikTok, where she wrote about the injury preventing her from riding and her determination to overcome it.
Grace has been passionate about equestrian sports for years, with goals to advance as a Grand Prix Jumper. Her father has spoken about her discipline and dedication, noting in a 2023 interview that she is “more disciplined” than him when it comes to her sport. He described watching her compete as the most nerve-racking experience, surpassing even his time with the Patriots at the Super Bowl.
The Wahlberg family, which includes children Ella, Michael, Brendan, and Grace, has always valued privacy but made a rare public appearance together in September. Mark has emphasized the importance of family, calling fatherhood his “most important role” and making lifestyle changes, such as moving to Nevada, to support his children’s dreams.
As Grace recovers, the focus is on her health and gradual return to riding. The incident highlights the physical demands and risks of equestrian sports, but with strong familial support and her own resolve, she is poised to continue pursuing her equestrian ambitions in the future.