Beautiful 22-year-old jockey passes away after horrific fall from horse... Family makes noble decision to donate organs, finding "great comfort amid the sense of loss"

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Jockey Ezzy Neale, who died at age 22 in an unexpected fall from a horse, will save the lives of other patients through organ donation.

The UK newspaper "The Sun" reported on the 11th (Korean time) that "Neale, who lost his life in a fall during an Australian horse racing event, is scheduled to donate organs in accordance with the wishes of his family."

Neale suffered a terrible accident during the Gyeongju race held in Warren, Australia, on the 8th. At a point approximately 400 meters from the finish line, his mount "Marnu" sustained a fatal leg injury and collapsed, causing Neale to be thrown off and lose consciousness. Jockey Diego Montes de Oca, who also fell from his horse, suffered only minor injuries.

Neale was urgently transported by ambulance helicopter to the nearby Thirbo Hospital, where he fought for his life on life support systems but ultimately passed away on the 10th.

The family issued a statement announcing the sad news and informing of the deceased's final altruistic decision. The family stated, "Ezzy rode horses before he could walk, and his love for horses was a lifelong passion," adding, "Through organ donation, he will give others the chance at life, which brings great comfort to our family even amid this immense sense of loss."

They further added, "We are deeply grateful to the medical staff who devotedly cared for Ezzy, as well as the support from the Australian racing industry, including Racing NSW and the Jockeys' Association. We ask that you respect our family's privacy for the time being."

The Australian racing industry is plunged in deep sorrow. The local racing community, which had been greatly encouraged by the successful holding of the Melbourne Cup last week, will continue to maintain a tone of mourning for Neale throughout this week. The remaining schedule at Warren Racecourse on the day of the accident and the Gyeongju race at Scone Racecourse on the 9th were completely canceled.

Trainer John Thomson, who worked with Neale at Randwick, paid tribute by saying, "He was a shining presence loved by everyone, always with a smile on his face. It is heartbreaking."

Neale, who had been a promising apprentice jockey, achieved a total of 88 wins since his official debut in February 2024. In July last year, he met expectations by securing his first major race victory at Rosehill, the top racetrack in New South Wales, while working with local renowned trainer Brett Lobb.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original