Jockey Callum Pritchard required X-rays at the hospital following a serious incident at Huntingdon races. While riding the hurdler Limier d’Arthel owned by JP McManus, the jockey fell at the first flight.
Limier d’Arthel, racing eagerly after a 648-day break, made a high jump and landed awkwardly, making it difficult for Pritchard to maintain balance.
The horse, under the training of Philip Hobbs and Johnson White, ran loose after the fall, running over the jockey and causing his helmet to come off.
Medical staff provided immediate assistance, and the race continued without screens being put up, leaving Pritchard visible on the track during the live broadcast.
A formal report of the incident was submitted to the British Horseracing Authority for review.
Pritchard’s agent, Sam Stronge, mentioned that the jockey was able to communicate a few hours after the accident. “Callum underwent X-rays on his leg at the hospital after being stepped on by the horse. He is optimistic about his recovery and remains in good spirits.”
The race was won by the favorite, Double Measure, with officials delaying the next race by nine minutes to allow for further evaluation of Pritchard’s condition.
Former jockey Daryl Jacob, providing analysis at the event, described the incident as severe, emphasizing the resilience of jockeys. He wished Pritchard a speedy recovery.
In the BHA stewards report, it was noted that an investigation was conducted to determine why screens were not deployed around the fallen jockey at the third last hurdle. The clerk of the course provided input, and the matter was forwarded to the British Horseracing Authority for further review.
This incident occurred shortly after Pritchard’s success with Imperial Saint at the Sky Bet Peter Marsh Chase at Haydock, where he achieved a significant victory.