'Tragic news': Jockey, 37, dies after horror race fall
Tributes are rolling in across the horse racing industry, following the devastating news that amateur jockey Lorna Brooke has died as a result of a horror race fall 10 days ago.
She was only 37 years old.
Brooke was rushed to hospital after a frightening fall while riding Orchestrated in the Pontispool Equine Sports Centre Handicap Chase on April 8.
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She was later placed into an induced coma at Southmead Hospital in Bristol, but tragically failed to pull through.
The Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) announced the devastating news of her death in a statement on social media.
"It is with deep sadness that we have to share the tragic news that Lorna Brooke passed away yesterday,โ the IJFโs statement read.
"Her family thank everyone for their kindness in the last few weeks, particularly the staff at Southmead Hospital who were so professional.
"They will be having a private funeral and will hold a celebration of Lorna's life once Covid restrictions allow."
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family of Lorna Brooke at this tragic time. pic.twitter.com/aKNk0HF6MU
โ Injured Jockeys Fund (@IJF_official) April 19, 2021
The 37-year-old amateur rider enjoyed high-profile success when winning the inaugural Ladies Handicap Chase at Fairyhouse on Moonlone Lane for Paul Stafford in 2015.
A 25-1 chance, Moonlone Lane had gone winless in a 26-race career up to that point, but Brooke guided him home in front, with Katie Walsh, Lizzie Kelly, Rachael Blackmore and Nina Carberry all trailing in her wake. Moonlone Lane then won next time out at Musselburgh under Brooke.
"It's tragic news, it really is shocking," Stafford told Sky Sports Racing.
"When she got the fall people were very concerned, we were too and we were saying prayers, but unfortunately this has happened.
"She was a lovely person, obviously she rode that winner for us and we kept in contact over the years through social media, congratulating each other on social media when each of us had winners. It's shocking it's happened."
"I send my condolences to her family, my heart goes out to them."
Racing world reacts to awful news
Legendary jockey Sir Anthony McCoy was among the many figures in the racing industry to share their shock and devastation at the news of Brooke's death.
Amateur jockey Lorna Brooke has sadly and tragically passed away. We can only send our deepest sympathy to her friends and family. And remember the sport we love can be so so tough. #rip pic.twitter.com/bkuZ2Y6TKs
โ Matt Chapman (@MCYeeehaaa) April 19, 2021
Devastated to hear that Lorna Brooke has tragically passed away following her fall at Taunton. Sending support to all connected with Lorna. Horrific news ๐
โ Joshua Stacey๐๐ป (@TheRacingJosh) April 19, 2021
In memory of Lorna Brooke.
Jockeys pay their respects before this evening's card at @kemptonparkraceโ Racing TV (@RacingTV) April 19, 2021
Still canโt believe the sad new about Lorna Brooke. She always had a smile and loved racing. Our thoughts are with her family at this very sad time. pic.twitter.com/ovZshdwCky
โ Richard Johnson (@dickyjohnson77) April 19, 2021
Such desperately sad news, sincere condolences to Lornaโs family and friends
โ Jean Edwards (@Miesque1511) April 19, 2021
Heartbreakingly sad news. thoughts and prayers with her family.
RIP Lorna ๐ https://t.co/NXlxw6VNtlโ AP McCoy (@AP_McCoy) April 19, 2021
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