Jockey in ICU after track fall

Thomas Russell

Wanganui-based jockey Thomas Russell is in a critical condition in the intensive care unit at Christchurch Hospital after a trackwork fall on Thursday, the website Stuff has reported.

"Russell was taken to Palmerston North Hospital following a fall at Bulls, but was transferred to Christchurch," it said. The accident happened at the property of Bulls horse trainer Raymond Connors, whom Russell does a lot of work for.

Mr Connors told the Chronicle the jockey was riding on his private training track on Thursday when the fall happened.

The 31-year-old has ridden five winners this season and has a career tally of 276 wins, the website says.