Two jockeys rushed to hospital after ‘terrible accident’ at York races

Jockeys Jim Crowley and Trevor Whelan have been taken to hospital following a ‘terrible accident’ at York races.

There were deeply worrying scenes as the favourite Almeraq, ridden by Crowley, appeared to clip heels of a rival around two furlongs from the finish in Sunday’s Sky Bet Starnan Garrowby Stakes.

The onlooking North Yorkshire crowd was stunned into an eery silence as Crowley plummeted to the turf following the collision, while also causing Tiger Bay and – rider Whelan – to fall in the 4:30pm race.

Fortunately, both Almeraq and Tiger Bay seemingly walk away unscathed. However, screens were erected around Crowley and Whelan as the pair were treated by medical staff for suspected lower-leg injuries.

A subsequent update confirmed that Crowley and Whelan were conscious and communicating, but both riders have been transported to a Leeds hospital for ‘further assessment’.

The accident meant a significant delay in the remaining races of the day.

‘Both jockeys, Jim Crowley and Trevor Whelan, are conscious and talking to the medical teams,’ a statement from York Racecourse read.

‘They are being transferred to hospital for further assessment and treatment, as required. Racing has protocols in place to contact the next of kin.

‘Both horses, Almeraq and Tiger Bay, continued to run after the incident. They are being assessed by the expert veterinary teams.

‘There is currently a delay to racing.’

The statement urged fans and commentators to avoid speculating on the incident while Crowley and Whelan were still in hospital.

‘We would ask people not to speculate further on this incident,’ it said.

‘The thoughts of all at York Racecourse are with the riders and their families.’

According to The Racing Post, Crowley and Whelan have suffered suspected broken legs. No injuries were reported to either Almeraq or Tiger Bay, though.

While Stewards had explored the possibility of an immediate inquiry into the frightening incident, an investigation has been adjourned for the time being, with a date set to be confirmed in due course.

More to follow.