Additional Coverage:
- Jockey dies one month after having both legs amputated following freak horse accident (themirror.com)
Veteran Australian jockey Shane McGovern has passed away following a tragic accident at his stables that resulted in the double amputation of his legs. The 67-year-old suffered severe injuries when his horse, Reformist, collapsed and died, pinning him beneath on April 8. Since the incident, McGovern had faced a difficult health battle and was placed in an induced coma.
The Australian Jockeys Association confirmed McGovern’s death, announcing that his condition had deteriorated and that he had recently been moved to palliative care. In a statement, the association expressed their sorrow: “We are devastated to announce that after a hard-fought battle, Queensland jockey Shane McGovern passed away this morning.
Our hearts go out to his family and friends. May Shane now rest in peace.”
McGovern’s wife, Kim, found him after six hours, leading to his hospitalization from their home in Charters Towers, North Queensland. The accident caused a loss of blood flow to his legs, along with a dislocated shoulder and multiple fractured ribs. Reformist, a nine-year-old horse, was reported to have suffered an aneurysm during routine exercise, which led to the collapse.
In support of McGovern, Racing Queensland contributed £26,000 to a GoFundMe campaign established for him, with the Queensland Jockeys’ Association adding £2,600, bringing the total funds raised to nearly £43,000.
Racing Queensland CEO Lachland Murray extended condolences to McGovern’s family and praised his dedication: “Shane was a natural horseman who devoted his life to the thoroughbred industry and was a beloved figure, especially in regional areas. His commitment to racing in the north and northwest of Queensland was invaluable.”
Murray also emphasized the importance of supporting the racing community through this difficult time, ensuring that services will be available to those grieving the loss of Shane McGovern.