Races stop after jockey’s tragic death
Anzac Day race meets have been postponed after the sudden death of a respected jockey, as a fundraiser set up for his devastated family surpasses more than $220,000.
Dean Holland, 34, died after he fell from his horse during a country race meeting in Donald, in Victoria’s northwest, on Monday.
Mr Holland was competing in the first race of the day when his horse, Headingley, suddenly crashed into the running rail.
Race meets on Anzac Day in Flemington and Moe have been postponed as a mark of respect for the jockey.
Prominent racing owner Tony Ottobre launched a GoFundMe page on Monday evening to raise money for Mr Holland’s wife Lucy and their four children.
“Dean Holland was an exceptional young man and taken far too soon, all monies will go to Lucy to help raise the children,” he wrote.
Mr Ottobre chipped in $100,000 of the fundraiser’s $500,000 goal, which had jumped to more than $220,000 in 12 hours since.
Dean Holland was a great bloke. A loving father. Doing the job he loved and it’s a tragic day for all. But no more then for his family. Let’s get behind Lucy and 4 the children, they will need support from us all. Anything helps. 🙏🏼 https://t.co/RfLbAsv6pu
— JⓂ️ Ⓜ️anagement (@racingjordy) April 24, 2023
Mr Holland was riding in the Leading Teams 3YO Maiden Plate about 1.30pm on Monday when his horse ducked sharply and fell as the field neared the final straight.
Fellow jockey Alana Kelly then fell from her horse, Time To Rumble, which tripped over his horse.
She was able to walk away from the crash but Mr Holland died at the scene despite efforts from on-site paramedics.
Racing Victoria chief executive Andrew Jones described Mr Holland as a “gifted lightweight rider” who was highly respected by his peers.
“He showcased his immense talent on the biggest stage last month when winning the Group 1 Newmarket Handicap at Flemington,” he said.
“Dean’s passing is heartbreaking for all within Victorian racing and the sport nationally. It is a sobering reminder of the immense bravery of our riders.”
Mr Holland began racing in South Australia in 2005, going on to ride more than 1075 career winners across the country.
Victorian Jockeys Association chief executive Matt Hyland said the jockey was a “much-loved” member of the community.
“The VJA and our members are incredibly saddened by the loss of our colleague and friend Dean Holland and extend our heartfelt condolences to his partner Lucy, his four children and his wider family,” he said.
WorkSafe will investigate the circumstances of the accident and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
