Jockey Darren Jones, 48, killed in horror three-horse fall in northern NSW
A JOCKEY has been killed in a horror three-horse fall at a country race meeting in northern NSW.
The shocking scenes unfolded at Warialda, in the state’s northwest slopes region on Saturday afternoon.
Tamworth-based jockey Darren Jones, 48, died after falling off his horse Montague Clan in the third race.
Racing NSW released a statement a short time ago, confirming the devastating news.
Leading female jockey Leanne Henry and apprentice Melanie Bolwell were also injured after being caught up in the tumble.
Racing NSW said Darren and Melanie were both knocked out in the fall.
Melanie regained consciousness, however, despite the frantic attempts of paramedics to keep Darren alive, he could not be revived.
All three were rushed to hospital where sadly, Darren was pronounced deceased a short time later.
“This is a terrible tragedy and our thoughts and prayers go out to Darren’s family and friends,” said Mr Peter V’landys AM, Racing NSW’s Chief Executive.
Darren was a widely known and well-liked jockey in the Hunter and North West region, having ridden more than 20 winners this season, as well as 40 placegetters.
Darren’s last winner was aboard Maybegrey at Narromine last Sunday, April 2.
Dozens of people have taken to social media to pay tribute to the jockey after learning of the devastating news, among them Fox Sports, Racing NSW and fellow jockeys.
Racing family will come together to support Darren Jones family after tragic loss. Member of NSW Jockeys Association. pic.twitter.com/luVJKVTfYM
— Andrew Bensley (@AndrewBensley) April 8, 2017
My sincerest condolences go out to the family and friends of Darren Jones. A great ambassador and college for as long as I can remember. Rip
— Adrian Layt (@adrianlayt) April 8, 2017
Tragic news from NSW country track Warialda today where NSWJA Committee Member Darren Jones has passed away after a racing incident – AJA
— NationalJockeysTrust (@JockeysTrust) April 8, 2017
My thoughts and prayers go out to Darren Jones and his family. A devastating loss to the racing industry #RestInPeace
— Tommy Berry (@TommyBerry21) April 8, 2017
Very sad to here the passing of Darren Jones after a race fall this afternoon at Warialda
RIP mate— Michael McInally (@MMcInallyPhotos) April 8, 2017
Tragic news to hear Darren Jones has passed away after a fall at NSW country track Warialda. Thoughts are with DJ's family and close friends
— ?? BRENTON AVDULLA (@brentonavdulla) April 8, 2017
Tragedy today at Warialda picnics in NSW. It's been confirmed that jockey Darren Jones has died after being in a terrible fall in race 3.
— Sky Sports Radio (@SkySportsRadio1) April 8, 2017
Jockey Darren Jones passes away @JockeysTrust – https://t.co/u0yYj4acMu
— Racing NSW (@racing_nsw) April 8, 2017
Tragic news to come out of Warialda today. Our thoughts are with Darren's family and friends during this terrible time.
— Scone Race Club (@sconeraceclub) April 8, 2017
Jockeys and racing fans are in shock after Darren Jones was killed when three horses fell in a race at Warialda. https://t.co/TYx07mrcNu
— Moments Australia (@MomentsAU) April 8, 2017
TERRIBLE NEWS:
48-year-old jockey Darren Jones passes away after a fall in Race 3 at Warialda— FOX SPORTS News (@FOXSportsNews) April 8, 2017
