Former champion jockey Jim Crowley has spoken for the first time since sustaining a broken leg and pelvis in a fall at York Racecourse on Sunday. The 47-year-old posted on Instagram to thank well-wishers and medical staff, adding he is 'looking forward to getting back in the saddle'.
Crowley was riding hot favourite Almeraq in the Sky Bet Starman Garrowby Stakes when the horse clipped heels and fell around two furlongs from the finish. The incident also brought down Tiger Bay, ridden by Trevor Whelan. Both horses were unhurt.
Whelan, 36, suffered a complex ankle fracture and was initially treated at Leeds General Infirmary before being referred to a specialist ankle surgeon in London. Crowley underwent surgery on Tuesday to stabilise his fractures after emergency treatment for internal bleeding.
In a separate incident at Fontwell on Sunday, jump jockey David Noonan underwent surgery for a leg fracture after being kicked at the start. All three jockeys are expected to require prolonged recovery and rehabilitation.
