Story highlights
Michelle Payne in "serious but stable condition" after fall
Jockey was in "acute pain" with abdomen injury
To remain in hospital for "at least a week"
Jockey Michelle Payne was set to make her debut at Royal Ascot next month, but the first female winner of the Melbourne Cup is in a “serious but stable condition” after suffering abdomen injuries in a fall.
The Australian is expected to remain in hospital for “at least a week” after falling from her mount Dutch Courage in a race at Mildura Monday.
The 30-year-old was reported to have experienced “acute pain” after the fall. She later tweeted a picture of her injuries, saying she needed pancreas and liver scans.
READ: Michelle Payne – fame no hindrance in equality fight
Payne made history in November by winning the Melbourne Cup on 100-1 outsider Prince Of Penzance.
Victorian Jockeys’ Association chief executive Des O’Keefe said: “Surgery has been successful and Michelle will be remaining in hospital for at least a week, perhaps more. She’s in a serious but stable condition.”
He added: “It looked reasonably innocuous at the time and it’s ended up significantly more serious than that, but hopefully the recovery will be full and complete.
“I’m sure she’ll have mixed feelings - happy that it could have been a lot worse but also bitterly disappointed given the amount of work she’s been doing and some overseas engagements that will now be on hold.”
She was earmarked for rides for trainer and fellow Australian Jane Chapple-Hyam at the prestigious Royal meeting at Ascot from June 14-18 – Solar Deity in the Royal Hunt Cup and The Twisler in the Gold Cup on Ladies’ Day.
Payne was also due to ride in Sweden before returning to Ascot for the Shergar Cup in August.
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