Jockey dies a month after freak horse driving accident noticed each legs amputated
Jockey Shane McGovern, 67, has sadly passed away just a month after his horse Reformist, collapsed and died while he was riding trackwork at his stables in Australia
Shane McGovern, pictured with his horse Reformist, has passed away following the horror incident(Image: 7 News)
A veteran jockey who had both his legs amputated after a horrific freak accident at his stables has sadly passed away.
Shane McGovern, 67, was injured when his beloved horse, Reformist, reportedly collapsed and died, pinning him beneath on April 8. The Australian had been through a “horrendous battle” with his health ever since and saw him left in an induced coma.
The Australian Jockeys Association broke news of his sad passing after confirming McGovern’s health had been deteriorating. McGovern had been moved to palliative care just days ago.
In a statement, the organisation said: “We are devastated to announce that after a hard-fought battle, Queensland jockey Shane McGovern passed away this morning. Our hearts go out to his family and friends. May Shane now rest in peace.”
The incident McGovern’s wife, Kim, found him after six hours and he was rushed to hospital from his base in Charters Towers, North Queensland, Australia.
The incident severed the blood supply to the rider’s legs, and medics discovered he had also dislocated his shoulder and fractured multiple ribs.
Reformist, a nine year old horse, was reported to have collapsed after suffering an aneurysm during routine exercise.
Racing Queensland has contributed £26,000 to a GoFundMe established for McGovern, while the Queensland Jockeys’ Association provided an additional £2,600, bringing the overall total to nearly £43,000.
Following news of his passing, Racing Queensland’s CEO Lachland Murray added: “First and foremost, our sincerest condolences are extended to Kim and the McGovern family.
“On behalf of Racing Queensland and the board, our thoughts are with them at this tragic time.
“Shane was a natural horseman, dedicating his entire life to the thoroughbred industry, and has been an invaluable supporter of racing in the north and north west of the state.
“He was universally loved and admired amongst those who had the pleasure of knowing Shane, and his unwavering commitment to the industry – particularly in the regional areas of the state – was integral over a number of years.
“It’s important that we rally together and for our participants to be supported, and we will be providing support services for industry participants who are grieving Shane’s loss.”
