Two jockeys airlifted to hospital and one in ‘serious’ condition as family ask for prayers after racing abandoned
TWO jockeys have been airlifted to hospital and one is in a ‘serious’ condition after a horrific fall.
Blake Spriggs and Beany Panya both came down in a contest at Moruya racecourse in Australia on Friday.
Spriggs’ horse Blesstas looked to clip the heels of the leader and stumbled, bringing Panya’s horse The Boomerang down with her.
Both jockeys were airlifted to hospital and the two remaining races on the card were cancelled.
Beany’s sister Deanne wrote on Facebook: “The nurse at Moruya hospital has updated me on Beany’s condition.
“She is currently in stable but serious condition following the nasty race fall today.
“There are suspected fractures to her back, and the full extent of her injuries is still being assessed.
“Her consciousness is not great at the moment, but she is being closely monitored.
“A helicopter is one its way to transport her to Canberra hospital for further treatment and assessment.
“Hoping both her and Blake are OK and wishing them a speedy recovery.
“Thank you for everyone’s thoughts, offers of help and messages. So lovely.”
While one of Spriggs’ family wrote on X: “Appreciative of everyone who has reached out with well wishes for Blake.
“Our family hasn’t received too much extra info other than what has been reported on Racingnsw, which is that he is conscious with head injuries and a fair amount of pain throughout his body. Currently in an ambulance to Canberra hospital.
“Blake’s the toughest of little brothers. Any prayers for him and Beany are greatly appreciated.
“Stewards and multiple industry people have been in contact with Blake’s fiance, my mum and sister, but it’s just the nature of the horrible situation that the professionals in the ambulance are prioritising Blake.
“We’re not going to get info until the family members above arrive at the hospital.
“I’m in a really really s**t situation being overseas but just hoping the next news is somewhat positive.”
Moruya racecourse is about 100 miles east of Australian capital Canberra.
A Racing NSW statement issued quickly after the fall said: “Beany has been in and out of consciousness and will be airlifted to hospital.
“Blake is conscious but in a lot of pain, and he’s still being attended to on track by ambulance officers.
“Blake has head, chest and abdominal injuries and will also be airlifted to hospital.”
Both horses were unharmed in the incident.
More to follow.