Apprentice jockey Tommie Jakes, one of the racing’s most promising young riders, has died aged 19.
The Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) and the Professional Jockeys Association (PJA) issued a joint statement on Thursday afternoon saying: “It is with deep sadness that we report the death of licenced apprentice jockey Tommie Jakes, 19, who tragically died at home this morning near Newmarket.
“Tommie was a much-loved son and brother, and a popular member of George Boughey’s racing team.
“His parents Jeremy and Tonie ask that their privacy is respected at this terrible time.”
The British Horseracing Authority’s acting chief executive Brant Dunshea said: “We are devastated to hear the news about Tommie.
“He was a talented young rider with the world at his feet, and had earned great praise from trainers for his horsemanship and attitude in just the last few months.
“His family and friends, colleagues at the George Boughey yard and everyone who worked with him in Newmarket will be grieving today, and all of us in the racing community will share that pain.”
