A split-second decision to protect a fellow rider during a high-speed race has left veteran jockey Jackie Davis hospitalized with serious injuries after a harrowing fall at Finger Lakes Racetrack on June 1.
The accident occurred during the fifth race in Farmington, when Davis, riding Reason to Risk, clipped heels and was thrown headfirst to the ground. According to reports, Davis was attempting to hold her position to prevent a collision after another horse veered into her path.
Race stewards later determined that jockey Keiber Coa, riding frontrunner Miss C Banker, “drifted in nearing the 11/16ths pole,” causing Davis’ mount to alter course and stumble. Miss C Banker crossed the finish line first but was disqualified and placed last. Coa received a seven-day suspension, starting June 11.
Davis was unconscious when medics reached her but was revived and transported to a hospital in Rochester. She sustained multiple displaced rib fractures, a lacerated liver, facial trauma, abrasions, and an air pocket near her lung.
“I just personally think the whole thing was avoidable,” Davis said later. “I don’t think it was intentional… but it’s a lesson to everybody.”
Davis, a multiple stakes-winning jockey with 953 wins from over 9,000 starts, has been a top rider at Finger Lakes for five years. Her mount in the accident, trained by William Bartlett, returned safely to the barn with minor injuries.
“She’s a tough kid; she’s a Davis,” said her agent, former jockey Dean Frates. “The first thing she’s talking about is getting back to riding.”
Doctors advised a six-week recovery, though Davis, undeterred, said, “If we can wrap it, we’re gonna ride.”
Her family has since launched a GoFundMe campaign to support her recovery during what is expected to be a three-month absence from the sport.
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