BATHURST-based jockey Chelsea Ings was left with a broken nose and concussion but cleared of any spinal injuries after a horror racing incident at Hawkesbury on Thursday afternoon.
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In the saddle of Miss Merlin for her mother-trainer Wanda Ings - who has run her operation out of Bathurst since August last year - the jockey was dislodged around the 300 metre mark.
Ings was positioned at the rear of the field with the $151 outsider as they entered the home straight and looking for space to give Miss Merlin a run.
But when rival Rizzuto veered towards the rails in front of the Ings ridden four-year-old mare, it caused her to fall.
Ings was dislodged and initially left lying unconscious on the track. Miss Merlin returned to her feet after falling and continued to gallop down the straight.
"Chelsea was unconscious after her fall but soon regained consciousness," Racing NSW posted on its website.
Ings was transported to Westmead Hospital and had scans of her spine and shoulder. Racing NSW's Dr. Duckworth reports that these are clear at this stage and that she remained in the hospital overnight due to a bad concussion.
"Chelsea has fractured her nose and is awaiting further examination by the facial doctor to ensure she has no other fractures," Racing NSW said.
Hawkesbury Race Club posted on its Twitter account "Our thoughts are with Chelsea Ings and we wish her a speedy recovery!", while trainer Debbie Prest posted: "Very lucky girl, look after yourself Chelsea."
