Veteran Australian jockey Shane McGovern, 67, has been transferred to palliative care as he continues to battle the effects of a shocking trackwork accident earlier this month. McGovern had both of his legs amputated after being trapped under a dead horse for six hours, which cut off blood circulation to his legs and also caused a dislocated shoulder and several broken ribs.
Palliative Care Transfer
An Australian Jockeys Association spokesperson confirmed the move to Channel Seven, stating: '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.'
Previous Optimism
After McGovern's first leg was amputated, his wife remained optimistic given her husband's fighting spirit. She told Racenet: 'It won't slow him down, it might just be a bump in the road.'
Community Support
Racing Queensland donated $50,000 to a GoFundMe page set up for McGovern's recovery, with the Queensland Jockeys' Association contributing $5,000. The fundraiser has so far raised $83,000 to assist the McGovern family.
Career Highlights
Throughout his career, McGovern achieved over 200 wins and 676 place results from 1,885 starts.
Other Recent Incidents
Earlier this month, fellow Queensland jockeys Jasper Franklin and Yvette Lewis were injured during Gold Coast jumpouts. Franklin suffered a broken collarbone, ending his Brisbane apprentice premiership hopes, while Lewis sustained concussion and a tailbone injury after her horse bucked.
