Australian Jockey Izzy Neale Dies at 22 After Falling During Race

Australian apprentice jockey Izzy Neale has died at the age of 22 after falling from her horse during a race at Warren Racecourse in New South Wales.

Neale was riding her horse, Marnoo, when she was dislodged during Sunday’s race. She was airlifted to Dubbo Hospital, where she received medical attention but later died from her injuries.

Her family announced her death on Tuesday in a joint statement with Racing NSW, confirming that she passed away surrounded by her loved ones.

“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 statement read.

The family described Neale’s passion for horses as a lifelong commitment, revealing that she had been riding before she could walk and had more recently developed a strong interest in professional horse racing.

“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,” the statement added.

The family also disclosed that Neale would become an organ donor, saying the decision offered some comfort amid their grief by giving others an opportunity to live.

“Through organ donation, Izzy will give others the chance of life, bringing some comfort to our family amid this devastating loss,” they said.

Following the incident, the Cotton Cup meeting at Warren Racecourse was abandoned. Marnoo was also euthanised after sustaining a serious leg injury.

Another jockey involved in the same race, Diego Montes de Oca, sustained an injury to his foot and was subsequently discharged from hospital.

Neale recorded 88 winners during her professional riding career and was remembered by members of Australia’s racing community as a talented young jockey with considerable promise.

The Australian Turf Club described her as a talented young rider with a bright future.

Trainer John Thompson, whom Neale worked for, also paid tribute to her in a message shared on X, describing her as a cheerful and much-loved young woman.

“An absolute beacon of shining light. Always happy. Always smiling. Loved by everyone who met her,” Thompson wrote.

He added that her death was a heartbreaking loss to those who knew her.

Neale’s family expressed appreciation to the racing community, medical personnel, friends and members of the public for their support during the difficult period.

They also appealed for privacy as they come to terms with the loss, saying she would remain in their hearts.