“Shocking” 22-year-old top star dies in tragic accident: “She was fighting for her life, but in the end… it is heart-wrenching”

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

A promising 22-year-old rookie jockey in the Australian racing scene has died after a horrific fall during a race left her fighting for her life. News of the tragic death of the rising star, who had nurtured her dream since childhood and was on the verge of buying her first home this week, has plunged the Australian racing industry into deep sorrow and shock.

The UK media outlet The Sun reported on the 10th (Korean time), “Ezzy Neale, a 22-year-old female jockey hailed as a shining star in the Australian racing world, tragically passed away after suffering a horrific fall during a race.” It added, “Although she was kept alive by life support and fought for her life, her family officially confirmed her death through a statement.”

On the same day, UK media outlet The Mirror also reported Neale’s death, detailing the tense circumstances of the accident. According to the report, Neale suffered a fatal fall while riding Gyeongju horse Manu, trained by Kieran Hayzlett, in the Cotton Cup 1600m race held in Warren, New South Wales, Australia, last Sunday. She fell from her horse with approximately 400 meters remaining before the finish line.

As a result of the accident, Neale lost consciousness and was urgently transported to Dubbo Hospital by air ambulance. Gyeongju horse Manu also sustained serious injuries to its front legs and was euthanized. Diego Montes de Oca, who had been riding Shadow Dane in the same race, also fell from his horse but suffered only soft tissue injuries to his left foot; he received treatment and was discharged. The organizer, Racing New South Wales, canceled all remaining race schedules immediately after Neale’s accident.

After being transferred to the hospital, Neale continued to receive treatment while dependent on life support, but she never regained consciousness. On the 10th, her family issued an official statement: “Our beloved Ezzy peacefully closed her eyes in the presence of our closest family and friends.” They added, “We share the news of Ezzy’s passing with a heart-wrenching deep sorrow.”

The family further stated, “Ezzy had loved horses her entire life, riding them even before she could walk, which evolved into a passion for horse racing.” They noted, “Ezzy is set to donate her organs, offering new opportunities for life to others. This will be a small comfort to our family amidst the great loss.” They also added, “We extend our deepest gratitude to the racing community and medical staff who have shown love, kindness, and support for Ezzy and our family during this difficult time.”

Neale, from Merriwa in Australia, debuted on the professional circuit in 2024 after attending a racing academy. She demonstrated her talent by securing an immediate first victory at the Condobolin event, which was her debut race. Neale had been rapidly growing into a top-tier apprentice jockey, amassing an impressive 88 wins out of 699 total race appearances.

Particularly heartbreaking is the fact that Neale had competed in the Five Diamonds Day event held at Rosehill on Saturday, the day before the accident. In a broadcast interview, she revealed, “I plan to finalize the contract for my first home this week,” expressing her excitement and anticipation.

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.View Original