A sudden death stunned the horse racing world in Australia on Tuesday.
Izzy Neale, an apprentice jockey, died after being thrown from her horse during a race in New South Wales, her family and Racing NSW said in a statement on Tuesday. She was 22.
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“It is with deep sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Izzy, surrounded by her closest family and friends,” a joint statement read. “Izzy rode horses before she could walk. Her love of horses was a lifelong passion that, more recently, had grown into a love of racing.
“Through organ donation, Izzy will give others the chance of life, bringing some comfort to our family amid this devastating loss.”
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Neale was competing on her horse Marnoo in the Cotton Cup at the Warren Racecourse on Sunday. Marnoo suffered a leg injury that caused the incident. Senior rider Diego Montes de Oca, who was racing Shadow Dane, also fell from his course and suffered a broken leg, according to News.com.au.
Neale was treated on-site for her injuries before being transferred to a hospital where she died, according to Australia’s ABC.
“We are deeply grateful for the love, kindness and support shown to Izzy and our family by her friends, the racing community and everyone who has been by our side during this heartbreaking time,” her family’s statement continued. “We would like to thank Racing NSW and the NSW Jockeys Association for their care, compassion and support during this incredibly difficult time.”
Neale won 88 races during her professional career. She rode in four races on Sunday before her death.
