26-year-old jockey dies after fall in training

A 26-year-old Australian jockey has died after falling during training at a Queensland racetrack.

Carly-Mae Pye died today (Tuesday, 14 October) after sustaining head and chest injuries when her mount fell at Callaghan Park yesterday (Monday 13 October).

The jockey had been in an induced coma in Rockhampton Base Hospital, but today Racing Queensland’s Darren Condon said she was “unable to recover from her injuries”.

In a statement Mr Condon added: “Carly-Mae was a true champion of our sport, who will be remembered as a brilliant horsewoman.

“Racing Queensland offers its sincerest condolences to Carly-Mae’s family and partner Tim Cook.

“The racing community, particularly in Rockhampton, is in mourning this evening and Racing Queensland will continue to offer its support during this difficult time.”

Carly-Mae started race-riding in 2006 and had won around 200 races. In 2007 she took the central Queensland apprentice jockeys title.

She had been taking part in a barrier trial when her mount reportedly broke both of its front legs and rolled on her.

The horse was put down.

Rockhampton councillor Ellen Smith told local press: “I’ve watched her ride over the years, she was a champion equestrian, she’s done show riding, pony club — she’s done everything.

“And then she became a jockey. She was a very successful jockey, a beautiful hands-and-heels rider and it’s really tragic — a real freak accident.”

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