Jockey Izzy Neale has died after falling from her horse during a race at Warren Racecourse in Australia on Sunday.
The 22-year-old was dislodged from her horse Marnoo and was airlifted to Dubbo hospital.
Neale’s family announced on Tuesday that she had passed away from her injuries.
“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 from the family and Racing NSW said.
“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.
“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.”
The rest of the Cotton Cup meeting was abandoned and Neale’s horse Marnoo was euthanised after sustaining a serious leg injury in the accident.
A second rider, Diego Montes de Oca, was injured in the same race. He suffered minor injuries to his foot and has since been discharged from hospital.
Neale was an apprentice rider and rode 88 winners in her professional career.
The Australian Turf club described Neale as a “talented young rider with a bright future”.
Trainer John Thompson, who Neale worked for, also paid tribute.
“An absolute beacon of shining light. Always happy. Always smiling. Loved by everyone who met her,” he said on X.
“The world is poorer for the loss of a beautiful young lady. Heartbreaking.”
Neale’s family thanked the public and the racing authorities in Australia for their support, as well as the medical staff who cared for her.
“As we come to terms with our loss, we ask that our family’s privacy be respected,” they said.
“Izzy was dearly loved and will forever be in our hearts.”