A 22-year-old apprentice jockey has died after suffering critical injuries during a race in Australia, her family confirmed on Tuesday.
Izzy Neale, 22, died two days after falling from her horse Marnoo during a 1-mile race at Warren Racecourse in New South Wales on Sunday. Racing NSW reported that Neale was unconscious when airlifted to Dubbo Hospital, where she remained in critical condition until her death.
Neale’s family released a statement on Tuesday confirming her passing. "It is with deep sadness and broken hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Izzy, surrounded by her closest family and friends," the statement read. "Izzy rode horses before she could walk. Her love of horses was a lifelong passion that, more recently, had grown into a love of racing."
Through organ donation, Neale will give others the chance of life, bringing some comfort to our family amid this devastating loss.
The family expressed gratitude for the support from the racing community and medical staff, stating: "We are deeply grateful for the love, kindness and support shown to Izzy and our family by her friends, the racing community and everyone who has been by our side during this heartbreaking time."
The Incident and Aftermath
Neale was riding in the Cotton Cup at Warren Racecourse when she fell approximately 400 meters from the finish line during a 1,600-meter race. Racing NSW confirmed that her horse, Marnoo, suffered a near foreleg injury and was later euthanized. Another jockey, Diego Montes de Oca, was also dislodged during the race and suffered a foot injury but was discharged from the hospital.
Racing NSW and the Australian Turf Club issued statements expressing deep sadness over Neale’s death. The Australian Turf Club described her as "a talented young rider with a bright future" whose "passion for horses and racing will always be remembered."
Career and Legacy
Neale had a notable career despite her young age, securing 88 wins from 699 career starts. She won her first metropolitan race in July 2026 at Rosehill Gardens. Her brother, Tommy Neale, shared a heartfelt message on social media, stating: "You'll always be my lil baby sister, you were my best friend and we always was so close so I dunno how I'm gonna deal with this."
The racing community mourned her loss, with the Scone race meet postponed following consultation with jockeys and trainers. Scone is Neale’s home track in the NSW Hunter Valley, where she grew up.
Official Responses
Racing NSW confirmed Neale’s death in a joint statement with her family. The organization reiterated its commitment to supporting the racing community during the tragedy. Medical staff at Dubbo Hospital were also praised for their compassionate care.
Neale’s family requested privacy as they come to terms with their loss, stating: "As we come to terms with our loss, we ask that our family's privacy be respected. Izzy was dearly loved and will forever be in our hearts."