Veteran Queensland jockey Shane McGovern has tragically died following devastating injuries suffered in a fall during trackwork.
The 67-year-old lost both legs last month after being trapped for six hours beneath his horse, Reformist, which reportedly died from an aneurysm, with fellow trainer and wife Kim later finding him before doctors amputated his left leg and then his right two weeks later.
The duo have a long and rich history in racing, from Victoria to Queensland.
“First and foremost, our sincerest condolences are extended to Kim and the McGovern family. On behalf of Racing Queensland and the Board, our thoughts are with them at this tragic time,” RQ Acting CEO Lachlan Murray said.
“Shane was a natural horseman, dedicating his entire life to the thoroughbred industry, and has been an invaluable supporter of racing in the North and North West of the state.”
“He was universally loved and admired amongst those who had the pleasure of knowing Shane, and his unwavering commitment to the industry – particularly in the regional areas of the state – was integral over a number of years.”
“It’s important that we rally together and for our participants to be supported, and we will be providing support services for industry participants who are grieving Shane’s loss.”
Shane notched up more than 300 winners and is survived by Kim, and children Col, Chad and Dion.
“On behalf of the Australian Jockeys’ Association, I’d like to offer my deepest sympathies to Kim and the McGovern family,” AJA OH&S & Insurance Officer Kevin Ring said.
“Shane was a fantastic horseman, a champion for the racing industry and most importantly an unbelievable person.”
“His loss will be felt across the country, and the AJA will continue to support its members in any way possible following Shane’s passing.”
A GoFundMe to support Kim and the McGovern family has been established.
Jockeys will also wear black armbands at all meetings across the state this week in honour of Shane.
