File pic of Ashburton Raceway.
Photo: Ashburton Racecourse
Apprentice jockey Megan Taylor has died after falling from her horse during a race at Ashburton Raceway this afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the racecourse just after 1pm.
Several other riders were involved in the collision.
St John said staff at the race meeting provided the initial assistance.
“We further responded to the incident with two ambulances and one operations manager. One patient was taken to Ashburton Hospital with moderate injuries. Two other patients with minor injuries were assessed and treated at the scene,” a spokesperson said.
Many, including Racing Minister Kieran McAnulty, have paid tribute to Taylor.
“I want to pass on my deepest sympathies to Megan’s family and friends, and to all of those in the industry who worked alongside her and knew her,” McAnulty said on Twitter.
I’m incredibly saddened to hear about the passing of jockey Megan Taylor during a race this afternoon. I want to pass on my deepest sympathies to Megan’s family and friends, and to all of those in the industry who worked alongside her and knew her.
— Kieran McAnulty MP (@Kieran_McAnulty) December 15, 2022
Some details on today’s tragic death of Megan Taylor in a race fall at Ashburton https://t.co/jAeC3CapjG
— Michael Guerin (@GuerinSports) December 15, 2022
New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing chief executive Bruce Sharrock said the 26-year-old’s death was a tragedy.
“My thoughts are with her family and those who knew Megan very well throughout the racing community,” he said.
“It’s a tragic event, it’s a life taken way too soon, and the industry is in mourning.”
Sharrock had received an update on the others involved in the crash.
“I understand there are a few injuries but nothing of a life-threatening nature and for that we’re eternally grateful.”
Support services would be offered to anyone who needed them, he said.
The Racing Integrity Board will investigate what happened.
“We’ll be consulted and updated through that process as required,” Sharrock said.
Ashburton Raceway did not wish to comment.
Story Credit: rnz.co.nz