- Jockey survives shocking fall in Hong Kong
- Bowman has assured fans that he is doing well
- Unfortunately, his ride Tuchel was euthanized
Renowned Australian jockey Hugh Bowman was rushed to hospital in Hong Kong on Saturday after a shocking fall from his horse Tuchel.
The champion jockey, who rode the famous mare Winx to 32 of her 37 career victories, competed in the Class One Panasonic Cup (1400m) and had an astonishing escape from catastrophic injury when Tuchel tripped and threw him off.
Bowman remained conscious after the fall, but unfortunately Tuchel suffered serious injuries and could not be saved.
Bowman posted an update to his social media on Saturday evening as he underwent medical care, thanking everyone for their well wishes and confirming he was doing well.
“Thank you everyone for all the well wishes,” Bowman wrote.
Champion jockey Hugh Bowman survived a serious fall in Hong Kong on Saturday
“I have a few fractures, luckily nothing serious.”
Hong Kong jockey Keith Yeung Ming-lun was also involved in the shocking incident, but also managed to escape serious injury.
Bowman was unhorsed when Tuchel, the second favorite before the race, broke down in the 125 meters and made contact with Yeung’s Find My love.
Unfortunately, on-site veterinarians had to euthanize Bowman’s ride in front of the stands.
The horror took the shine off the victory of 21-year-old Luke Ferraris aboard Sauvestre, who had not seen the incident from the front of the peloton.
In 2020, Bowman was given a six-week suspension after being found guilty of careless driving during a horrific accident in which a horse and rider were trampled.
Bowman made a move on Smart Image that caused the two-year-old colt Hot ‘N’ Hazy, ridden by Andrew Adkins, to clip Duchess’ heels and fall to the ground.
Adkins ended up in the hospital with a broken left leg and collarbone, seven rib fractures and a collapsed lung.
Vets on site had to euthanize Bowman’s ride Tuchel in front of the stands
The 22-year-old’s injuries were so serious that he was off the road for months.
Bowman pleaded not guilty, but expressed his condolences to Hot ‘N’ Hazy’s trainer Danny Williams.
“Having been around horses all my life, I know how tragic it is to lose a horse and for everyone involved,” he said.
“I would like to wish Andrew Adkins a full and speedy recovery. I spoke to Andrew on the phone to let him know how sorry I was about the accident. He is cheerful, which was very nice and reassuring to hear.
‘I have done many races, I consider myself a cautious rider and this was by no means a hasty or impulsive decision.’