Two jockeys hospitalised after major incident at York racecourse

The major Sunday fixture at York was postponed following a shocking accident in the feature race of the afternoon. Two riders, Jim Crowley and Trevor Whelan, received medical attention on the course after a terrifying tumble overshadowed the meeting. Both were reported to be alert as they were subsequently taken to a Leeds hospital.

The pair of horses caught up in the accident, Almeraq and Tiger Bay, seemed to emerge unharmed from the incident on the Knavesmire.

Almeraq, partnered by Crowley, was the strong market leader for the 4.30 contest, the Sky Bet Starman Garrowby Stakes, when he seemed to strike the heels of another runner and crashed approximately two furlongs from home.

Almeraq, prepared by William Haggas, caused Tiger Bay, piloted by Whelan, to fall. The Sky Bet Sunday Series fixture was being broadcast live on ITV4.

Host Oli Bell subsequently informed ITV audiences: "The jockeys are conscious and being transferred to Leeds General Infirmary.

"We believe they have both suffered leg injuries.

"Both jockeys are conscious and communicating with the medical team. That is an almighty relief.

"You could hear a pin drop here at York for the past 15 minutes, but that is a very positive update.

"All our thoughts continue to be with Jim and Trevor."

The 5.00 contest was postponed by nearly half an hour before action got back underway.