Jockey Rhys Elliott, 18, in hospital after ‘horrible incident’ at Newcastle races

TEENAGE jockey Rhys Elliott was rushed to hospital after a ‘horrible incident’ at Newcastle races on Tuesday night.

The apprentice driver fell 100-30 from favorite Masterpainter in a one-mile race on the all-weather track.

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There was a significant delay after the 8pm race when screens were put up around Elliott.

He was rushed to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle, where his injuries were confirmed.

His agent Paul Brierly confirmed: “Rhys suffered a punctured lung and minor fractures to his neck and spine following the crash in Newcastle last night.

“Rhys would like to thank all the medical staff at the racecourse and the RVI and also thank you very much for all the messages from everyone.”

Reporting on the development of the situation last night, Sky Sports Racing presenter Kate Tracey said: “A horrible incident and crash occurred there with Rhys Elliott.

“The horse was up and fine, but Rhys was on the track with the screens around him for quite some time.

“We heard he was put in the ambulance.”

While Simon Mapletoft added: “The official news is that Rhys is ok, he is conscious and talking but has suffered injuries.

“He was taken to hospital for examination but is conscious, talking and that is good news after a very hard and violent fall.”

More to follow.

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