A veteran jockey who tragically lost both his legs after a horse collapsed on him has been moved to palliative care, according to the Australian Jockeys Association.
Shane McGovern's Condition Worsens
Shane McGovern, 67, was transferred to the palliative care unit at Townsville Hospital due to ongoing complications, as announced on Thursday. The Australian Jockeys Association posted on X: "An update on Shane McGovern, he has been transferred to the palliative care unit due to ongoing issues. He has his family by his side now as he continues with this horrendous battle. Updates to follow."
The accident occurred on April 8 at McGovern's stables in Charters Towers, North Queensland, Australia. He was riding trackwork when his horse, Reformist, reportedly collapsed and died from an aneurysm, trapping McGovern underneath. His wife, Kim, discovered him six hours later, and he was rushed to hospital.
The prolonged entrapment cut off blood supply to his legs, leading to amputation. He also suffered a dislocated shoulder and several broken ribs. Earlier, the Australian Jockeys Association had shared: "A devastating update on QLD jockey Shane McGovern, unfortunately Shane has now had both his legs amputated. We are sending all our prayers and love to you Shane and your family. Keep fighting Shane."
Fundraising and Support
Racing Queensland contributed £26,000 to a GoFundMe campaign, and the Queensland Jockeys' Association added £2,600, bringing the total to nearly £43,000. Donors were told: "At age 67, Shane has dedicated his entire working life to our industry and for it to be changed in this way through this accident is incredibly confronting for him and for his wife Kim. Shane will be facing a long time in hospital and will then need many months of rehabilitation."
McGovern has ridden more than 200 winners from 1,885 races over his career. The horse, Reformist, was a nine-year-old that collapsed from an aneurysm during routine exercise.
