Apprentice jockey Izzy Neale is in a critical condition in hospital following a serious fall during a race meeting in central-west New South Wales.
The 22-year-old was competing aboard Marnoo at Warren Racecourse on Sunday when she fell alongside another rider approximately 400 metres from the finish line.
Racing NSW confirmed that Neale lost consciousness during the incident and was airlifted to Dubbo Hospital, where her family are currently staying by her bedside.
Horse Put Down Following Serious Injuries
The incident also proved fatal for Neale’s mount, Marnoo, trained by Kieran Hazelton.
The horse sustained a near foreleg injury in the fall and was subsequently euthanised.
The second jockey involved, Diego Montes de Oca, was also transported to Dubbo Hospital.
He is suspected to have suffered a broken foot.
Scone Race Meeting Postponed After Incident
A race meeting scheduled for Monday at Scone has been postponed following discussions with jockeys and trainers.
Scone is Neale’s home track in the NSW Hunter Valley, where she grew up.
In a statement, Racing NSW expressed its support for the injured apprentice, her family and those affected by the incident.
“The thoughts and heartfelt support of Racing NSW and the entire community are with Izzy, her family, friends and colleagues during this extremely difficult time,” the organisation said.
Racing Community Reacts to Neale’s Condition
News of the incident prompted messages of support from members of the horse racing industry.
Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Robbie Dolan described the incident as a difficult moment for those in the profession.
“Tough day to be a jockey when things like this happen,” he wrote.
Former jockey Melinda Turner also shared a message, saying: “Praying for a miracle. A terrible day for our industry.”
Neale Had Raced in Sydney Just a Day Earlier
The serious incident came just one day after Neale competed at Rosehill’s Five Diamonds Day in Sydney.
During an interview with Sky Racing at the event, she revealed that she was expecting to finalise the purchase of her first home later that week.
Neale has recorded 88 victories from 699 race starts during her career.
Her first metropolitan victory came in July when she rode It’s A Tata to victory in the Highway Handicap at Rosehill.
She is now receiving treatment at Dubbo Hospital following Sunday’s accident, with her family remaining close by.
