Horse rider Lorna Brooke dies after Taunton fall

Amateur jockey Lorna Brooke died in hospital this past Sunday after falling at Taunton. The announcement was made by the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF).

Lorna Brooke was riding her horse Orchestrated when she fell at the third fence in the Pontispool Equine Sports Centre Handicap Chase on the 8th of April. Orchestrated was the horse trained by her mother, Lady Susan Brooke. She was treated on track before being transferred into an air ambulance.

Racing at Taunton was delayed by more than an hour while paramedics took Lorna to the air ambulance. Brooke was taken care of at Southmead Hospital in Bristol and was in a “critical, but stable condition”. She was said to be awake and alert when paramedics reached her. They underwent observations and tested spinal injury.

She was placed in an induced coma due to various complications during the week. Significant swelling had developed on her brain. She fought to recover, however, sadly on Monday it was confirmed she had died. Aged 37, Jockey Lorna Brooke died 10 days after the horrible fall from the Taunton course. 

The Equestrian community has mourned Brooke’s death

IJF stated “it is with deep sadness that we have to share the tragic news that Lorna Brooke passed away yesterday. Her family thank everyone for their kindness in the last few weeks, particularly the staff at Southmead Hospital who were so professional.”

The family will be having a private funeral and hold a celebration of Lorna’s life. The world of racing reacted soon to the shocking news. 

Trainer Michael Dods also stated “We are all so sad to hear that amateur jockey Lorna Brooke has died following a fall at Taunton. Puts everything into perspective. Our thoughts are with Lorna’s loved ones”. 

Also, the Racecourse Association said “The RCA is deeply saddened by the tragic news of Lorna Brooke’s death following a heavy fall at Taunton Racecourse on Thursday 8th April.” 

She enjoyed great success as a jockey. She rode 16 winners during her career that started in 2001. Seven of these winners were in the last five seasons. She enjoyed 183 rides during this five-year period, and saw 10 second places, 21 third places and 19 fourths.

From Horse TV we share our condolences. The death of Lorna Brooke leaves an empty space in the equestrian world.