Blake Shinn, a well-known Australian rider, was in a serious accident when he fell during Race 9 at Flemington on Tuesday. Earlier on, paramedics had worked to save him on the track. A few days later, he posted a hospital bed wellness check. Though it was a scary situation, Shinn was responsive and alert, staying awake and upright, which provided relief to his coworkers and admirers by the thousands.
It happened on the home straight during the last race of the day. An ambulance arrived on scene at speed, adding some dramatic delay. Witnesses worried that Shinn had been trampled by another horse when he fell from his mount. Fortunately, paramedics were on the scene in short order, and moments after he was rescued, he was already spotted using a green whistle to treat his pain.
At 38 years of age, Shinn has made a name for himself as one of Australia’s most successful jockeys. He’s best known for winning the 2008 Melbourne Cup on Viewed. On the day of the accident, Windstorm was all set to take Jesse for a ride. John Allen would replace him. As we speak he’s sailing to the most wonderful sixth place finish in the Melbourne Cup aboard Vauban. That win was a significant victory for superstars trainers Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott.
Upon hearing of his fall, fellow jockey Kerrin McEvoy expressed his concerns for Shinn. As each winner shared memories over the mic, he drove home the deep friendship that flows through racers.
“Typically Blake. Class, selfless. Speedy recovery, superstar,” – Adam Hamilton
Despite his serious condition, Shinn used his time in the hospital to personally thank each and every one of you who expressed their worries about his welfare. He said his concern was for the horse that died during the incident. It was a beautiful example of his devotion and empathy for the equine partners.
“Thank you all for your kind messages after my fall,” – Blake Shinn
Even as news is still coming in about his condition, the grace under pressure and professionalism that mark Shinn’s character shine through. His absence in the racing world will leave a major impact. We join his millions of fans in wishing him a speedy recovery, so he can get back on the track.
