Racing mourns “universally loved” jockey Shane McGovern

Tributes have poured in across the country following the passing of Queensland country jockey Shane McGovern, who died on Saturday after a heartbreaking health battle stemming from a freak trackwork accident.

The 67-year-old had been placed in palliative care just a day earlier, after complications from injuries sustained when he was trapped under a horse for up to six hours last month.

McGovern had been riding trackwork at Charters Towers when the horse collapsed suddenly due to an aneurysm, pinning him underneath until he was later discovered by his wife and trainer, Kim.

The incident resulted in devastating injuries, leading to two amputations at Townsville Hospital, first below the knee and then a second procedure weeks later, before medical complications ultimately proved insurmountable.

Jockeys across Queensland will wear black armbands in the coming week as a mark of respect for McGovern, who is survived by his wife Kim and children Col, Chad and Dion.

Racing Queensland Acting CEO Lachlan Murray paid tribute to the veteran rider.

“First and foremost, our sincerest condolences are extended to Kim and the McGovern family. On behalf of Racing Queensland and the Board, our thoughts are with them at this tragic time,” Murray said.

“Shane was a natural horseman, dedicating his entire life to the thoroughbred industry, and has been an invaluable supporter of racing in the north and north west of the state.

“He was universally loved and admired amongst those who had the pleasure of knowing Shane, and his unwavering commitment to the industry – particularly in the regional areas of the state – was integral over a number of years.”

Originally from New Zealand, McGovern rode extensively on the Victorian picnic circuit before travelling around Australia with his wife, training and racing horses in regional areas including Longreach, Yeppoon and most recently Charters Towers.