Top local jockey Vincent Ho Chak-yiu is set to be discharged from the Intensive Care Unit to a general ward by tomorrow after sustaining a head injury and minor fractures following a fall during Sunday’s Sha Tin race meeting.
Ho was one of four jockeys injured in two severe incidents during the 11-race event.
The Hong Kong Jockey Club confirmed that Ho underwent overnight monitoring in the ICU at Prince of Wales Hospital after his injuries, which include a head injury and minor fractures to his shoulder and neck.
“These injuries are expected to heal with conservative management. He is expected to be discharged from the ICU to the general ward within the next 24 hours,” the club said on Monday around 5 pm.
Another prominent jockey, Zac Purton, is scheduled for surgery later today to address a fracture in his left big toe.
“He will likely require about 4 to 6 weeks of rest and rehabilitation,” the club said.
Keith Yeung Ming-lun sustained contusion injuries to his left shoulder, thigh, and buttock muscles, with a full recovery anticipated within 2 to 3 weeks.
Angus Chung Yik-lai, who fractured his right facial bone, will be discharged today and is expected to return to riding in 4 to 6 weeks.
These injuries occurred during a tumultuous day at the Sha Tin racecourse.
Ho’s mount, Oldtown, clipped the heels of a horse ahead of him in the final stages of race 6, resulting in his fall.
Purton's injuries occurred in the ninth race when his horse, Legend St Paul’s, suffered a catastrophic leg injury and was later euthanized.
The incident triggered a chain reaction, causing Chung to fall and Yeung to tumble over both fallen jockeys.
To address the rider shortage for the upcoming meeting on Wednesday night at Sha Tin, the Jockey Club has decided to reduce suspensions for jockeys Alexis Badel and Andrea Atzeni, allowing them to participate.
Also, officials are arranging for at least one overseas-based jockey, and possibly two, to join the roster on short notice starting from next Sunday’s meeting.
