Irish jockey Graham Lee is currently in intensive care after being diagnosed with an unstable cervical fracture following a bad fall at Newcastle on Friday.
The 47-year-old, originally from Galway, was thrown from his horse Ben Macdui as the starting stalls opened. He was later rushed to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle. Unfortunately, Lee sustained damage to his spinal cord and is facing more complications, with his condition currently noted as "very serious."
A statement from the Injured Jockeys Fund said, "Jockey Graham Lee's MRI scan has shown that he has suffered an unstable cervical fracture causing damage to the spinal cord, as well as damage to blood vessels in the mid-cervical region. He remains in ITU with respiratory support at the Royal Victoria Infirmary Hospital in Newcastle, but it has been possible to reduce his sedation. This is a very serious injury, and at this early time, it is not possible to predict the extent of long-term recovery. Graham’s family are very grateful for the many messages of support that they have had."
Thoughts with Graham Lee and his family at this terribly tough time. ❤️ 🙏
— Stephen R Power (@racingblogger) November 11, 2023
In his career, Lee has competed in both flat and jump racing. His partnership with Amberleigh House gained widespread attention when they won the Grand National under the leadership of well-known trainer Ginger McCain in 2004.
Lee's successful career highlights include triumphs with staying hurdler Inglis Drever, securing seven victories, including the 2005 World Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. Also, he achieved Grade One successes with Another Promise and Kalahari King, both trained by Ferdy Murphy.
In 2012, Lee transitioned to flat racing, winning the 2015 Gold Cup at Royal Ascot with Trip to Paris and the 2018 Nunthorpe with Alpha Delphini, both at the Group One level. His most prolific flat season was in 2014, with 159 wins. In the current campaign, he has added 47 victories to his already impressive racing record.
