Apprentice Jockey Izzy Neale Dies at 22 After Tragic Fall in Australia

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 announced, after 22-year-old apprentice jockey Izzy Neale died from injuries suffered in a race fall at Warren Racecourse in Australia.

The Fall at Warren

Neale was dislodged from her horse Marnoo around the 400-metre mark during the Warren Shire Cotton Cup 1,600-metre event on Sunday. The 22-year-old apprentice rider was treated on site before being airlifted to Dubbo Hospital in a critical condition. Neale lost consciousness after she was reportedly dislodged during the meet at Warren in country New South Wales.

Her family announced her death on Tuesday evening, confirming she passed away while on life support.

According to the family statement published by Racing NSW, Neale’s organs were donated to give others the chance of life, bringing some comfort to our family amid this devastating loss. Her family also noted in their statement that she rode horses before she could walk and that her love of horses was a lifelong passion that, more recently, had grown into a love of racing.

The accident also involved senior rider Diego Montes de Oca, who was dislodged from his horse Shadow Dane. Montes de Oca sustained a suspected broken foot and minor injuries, and has since been discharged from Dubbo Hospital.

Career and Tributes

Neale built a professional record of 88 winners from 699 career starts during her time as an apprentice. She worked for trainer John Thompson, who paid tribute to her on social media as an absolute beacon of shining light who was always smiling and loved by everyone she met. Thompson added, The world is poorer for the loss of a beautiful young lady. Heartbreaking.

The Australian Turf Club described Neale as a talented young rider with a bright future. Her horse in the race, Marnoo, was euthanised after sustaining a serious near foreleg injury during the accident.

Members of the Australian racing community, including analysts and former jockeys, shared tributes online following the announcement. Such tragic news. Thoughts go out to Izzy’s family and everyone who knew her, said analyst Brad Davidson.

Former jockey Kayla Nisbett wrote, Absolutely devastating. Thinking of all her family, friends and colleagues. Racing reporter Trent Masenhelder wrote, Unimaginable tragedy. Thoughts with Izzy’s family and friends, and the wider racing community. Sky Racing presenter Lewis Willoughby said, Properly devastating. Thoughts to her family and friends. RIP. Thoroughbred trainer Tracey Bartley added, Devastating. Much love to Izzy’s family and friends. Neale’s brother Tommy also shared a message on social media following her death, writing, Izzy, I can’t believe what’s happened, aye … didn’t expect to be having meetings with doctors about pulling your life support, and adding, Just know I love you so much and you’ll always be my lil baby sister, you were my best friend and we always were so close. I dunno how I’m gonna deal with this. I’m so sorry I spent years in jail and didn’t spend much time together before this accident. I can’t even comprehend how I feel … till we meet again sis. gonna miss you so much!! Neale’s family expressed gratitude for the support shown by friends, racing authorities, and the medical staff who cared for her.

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