AUSTRALIAN JOCKEY IZZY NEALE DIES AT 22 AFTER RACE FALL

Australian apprentice jockey Izzy Neale has died after falling from her horse during a race at Warren Racecourse in New South Wales on Sunday.

The 22-year-old was airlifted to Dubbo Hospital for treatment after being dislodged from Marnoo.

Her family announced her death on Tuesday in a joint statement with Racing NSW, saying she died surrounded by close family and friends.

They described her love of horses as a lifelong passion that had developed into a promising racing career.

“Izzy rode horses before she could walk,” the family said.

Neale, who turned professional in 2024, rode 88 winners during her career. The Australian Turf Club remembered her as a talented young rider with a bright future.

Her trainer, John Thompson, also paid tribute, describing her as someone whose warmth left a lasting impression.

“Always happy. Always smiling. Loved by everyone who met her,” he wrote.

Neale’s family said she would become an organ donor, bringing them some comfort through the opportunity to help others.

The Cotton Cup meeting was abandoned following the incident. Marnoo was euthanised after suffering a serious leg injury.

Another jockey involved in the race, Diego Montes de Oca, sustained a foot injury and was later discharged from hospital.

Neale’s family thanked medical staff, the racing community and the public for their support, while asking for privacy as they grieve.

“Izzy was dearly loved and will forever be in our hearts,” they said.