Investigation into Devastating Jockey Fall Concludes
Racing Victoria stewards have officially closed their investigation into the horrific race fall that left young jockey Tom Prebble with life-altering spinal injuries. The inquiry, which lasted 79 days, concluded that no rider was at fault for the incident that occurred on September 9 at the Warrnambool racecourse.
The Fall and Its Immediate Aftermath
During Race 8, Prebble's mount, Pulveriser, knuckled and fell near the 700-metre mark, dislodging the 23-year-old jockey. Prebble, the son of Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Brett Prebble and Maree Payne of the famous racing family, was rushed to hospital where he underwent major spinal surgery.
The injuries were catastrophic. Prebble has no feeling or sensation below the T4 level of his spine, and medical professionals have indicated his chances of walking again are incredibly low.
Stewards' Findings and Evidence Gathered
In their report released on Thursday, stewards detailed the extensive evidence they considered. This included:
- Multiple interviews with rival jockeys Jake Noonan (Sephia), Jarrod Fry (Handshake), and Jordyn Weatherley (Idontgetit) who were near the incident.
- A thorough inspection of the racing surface where the fall occurred, which revealed no areas of concern.
- Discussions with Andrew Bobbin, the trainer of Pulveriser, who confirmed the gelding was sound before the race and provided a satisfactory veterinary report from Ballarat Veterinary Practice on August 28.
Post-race examinations of Pulveriser showed no abnormalities, and swab samples confirmed the horse was free of prohibited substances. Evidence from jockey Will Gordon, who rode the horse in its previous start at Swan Hill on August 24, was also reviewed.
Life After the Accident
In a recent interview with 7HorseRacing, Tom Prebble revealed he has no memory of the accident itself, only regaining consciousness days later when a feeding tube was removed. He described the extent of his injuries as probably the worst that you could be.
My percentage of walking again is the lowest it can be, Prebble stated. I haven't improved in sensation at all since my fall... but it can take a while and you never know with the treatment nowadays and I'm willing to try anything.
He is now focused on the future, waiting for his house to be modified to accommodate his needs so he can live independently and begin a new career chapter.
The stewards' report formally concluded that no pre-existing condition caused the fall and no rider was to blame. However, Pulveriser must now receive a veterinary clearance and complete an official trial to the stewards' satisfaction before being permitted to race again.
