Racehorse injury rules under spotlight after jockey's death
A NSW coroner recommends stronger safeguards for racehorses returning from injury following an inquest into the death of French apprentice jockey Marina Morel.
The coroner's inquest into the death of French apprentice jockey Marina Morel in New South Wales has sparked calls for stricter guidelines regarding racehorses returning from injury. The 30-year-old jockey died from blunt-force injuries after the mare she was riding, Lina's Choice, suffered a catastrophic leg injury during track work at Gulgong Racecourse on February 8, 2022.
The coroner, Deputy State Coroner Derek Lee, found that Lina's Choice had been appropriately managed during her recovery, but recommended that Racing NSW strengthen reporting standards for injured horses. Lina's Choice had previously injured its right front leg in March 2021, and although the initial rest period was deemed appropriate, the mare returned to work after six months and 22 days.
Despite no signs of lameness during recovery, the coroner found that Lina's Choice developed stress fractures in its left humerus, which caused the fatal injury. The coroner's recommendations include developing clearer guidelines for major orthopaedic injuries, broadening reporting requirements for trainers, and potentially reducing the 150-day threshold before a horse can return to racing.
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