Veteran Queensland jockey Shane McGovern has tragically passed away following a devastating accident at his stables. The 67-year-old lost both legs last month after being trapped for six hours beneath his horse, Reformist.
McGovern had been moved to palliative care during the week, but on Saturday morning, the Australian Jockeys Association confirmed his death. "We are devastated to announce that after a hard-fought battle, QLD jockey Shane McGovern passed away this morning. Our hearts go out to family and friends, and may Shane now rest in peace," the association said in a statement.
In a moving tribute, jockeys in New South Wales will wear black armbands in Race 4 at every meeting today. "Sadly, jockey Shane McGovern succumbed to injuries sustained during a trackwork incident at Charters Towers, Queensland, in April," New South Wales Jockeys said. "May he rest in peace."
A GoFundMe campaign had been established to support the McGovern family, raising $84,000. In addition to losing blood circulation to both legs during the initial ordeal, McGovern also suffered broken ribs and a dislocated shoulder.
This is a developing story. More details will follow as they become available.
