Source :- PERTH NOW NEWS
Much-loved apprentice jockey Izzy Neale has tragically died after a horrific fall on Sunday at regional racetrack Warren in New South Wales.
Neale, 22, and fellow jockey Diego Montes de Oca both came off their respective mounts Marnoo and Shadow Dane in the race, with Neale airlifted to Dubbo Hospital where she was put on life support.
The entire racing industry was praying for a miracle following the shocking accident … sadly that miracle didn’t come with Neale’s death confirmed by her family on Tuesday evening.
“It is with deep sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Izzy, surrounded by her closest family and friends,” the family said in a statement
“Izzy rode horses before she could walk. Her love of horses was a lifelong passion that, more recently, had grown into a love of racing.
“Through organ donation, Izzy will give others the chance of life, bringing some comfort to our family amid this devastating loss.
“We are deeply grateful for the love, kindness and support shown to Izzy and our family by her friends, the racing community and everyone who has been by our side during this heartbreaking time.
“We would like to thank Racing NSW and the NSW Jockeys Association for their care, compassion and support during this incredibly difficult time.
“We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the medical staff who cared for Izzy with such compassion.
“As we come to terms with our loss, we ask that our family’s privacy be respected. Izzy was dearly loved and will forever be in our hearts.”
Earlier, Neale’s brother, Tommy, said he was shattered.
“Izzy, I can’t believe what’s happened, aye … didn’t expect to be having meetings with doctors about pulling your life support,” he wrote on social media.
“Just know I love you so f****** much and you’ll always be my lil baby sister, you were my best friend and we always were so close …
“I dunno how I’m gonna deal with this. I’m so sorry I spent years in jail and didn’t spend much time together before this accident.
“I can’t even comprehend how I feel … till we meet again sis ❤ gonna miss you so much!!”
Neale grew up in the small town of Merriwa in the Upper Hunter Shire of New South Wales.
She was considered a rising star of the industry and rode her first city winner in July this year at Rosehill Gardens.
There was an outpouring of emotion after news of Izzy’s death was made public.
“Devastating, no words,” said the PrideOfJenni social media account.
NSW Jockeys said: “It is with a very heavy heart that we announce the passing of Izzy Neale. We will all miss you Izzy. May you rest in peace.”
Just Horse Racing said: “The Australian racing community is heartbroken following the passing of 22-year-old apprentice jockey Izzy Neale. Gone far too soon.”
Darby Racing said: “Absolute tragedy, much love to her family and friends.”
Commentator and former jockey Kayla Nisbett said: “Absolutely devastating. Thinking of all her family, friends and colleagues💔.”
