Gavin Lerena is likely to be out of race riding action for at least two months.
This news emerged after surgery at Milpark Traumu Unit on Sunday followed Gavin having fractured his scapula and clavicle in an horrific fall while riding Hakeem for Mike de Kock in the Listed Derby Trial at Turffontein on Saturday.
Gavin gives the thumbs up
Gavin’s relieved Mom Avril said that the Milpark Doctors and Nurses had been ‘amazing’.
In the race, Marco van Rensburg and Soldier On can be clearly seen causing severe interference. The Stipes report has not yet been published.
The Sporting Post has requested a comment from Phumelela after allegations were made by various readers that the racing operator’s ambulance services are still not up to standard.
Phumelela have previously refused comment on this important issue, including in November 2017 when Chase Maujean was injured at the Vaal.
The Stipes Report at the time recorded that prior to the running of Race 5, jockeys raised concerns regarding the medical vehicles on duty.
‘A delegation of jockeys were taken to the medical facility where they had an opportunity to view the vehicles and question the medical staff on duty.
Further concerns were raised regarding emergency medical procedures on raceday.
The operator has undertaken to address these concerns and furnish them with the necessary compliance certificates.’
At the time the Sporting Post wrote to both racing operators and the National Horseracing Authority stating that we noted that many overseas racing jurisdictions have clearly defined Raceday Emergency protocols, which are available to the public.
A copy of the relevant raceday health and safety policy applicable to South African racecourses was requested but was never received, despite follow-up emails.
Do they exist? We are left to wonder.
