Emma-Jayne Wilson, North America’s top female jockey by earnings, sustained severe injuries during a recent race at Woodbine and will be sidelined for the entirety of the 2024 season. The beloved Canadian jockey was riding Ready Shakespeare when the horse suffered a catastrophic cardiac event and fell, propelling Wilson into the railings. She was quickly transported to Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto for treatment.
On Monday morning, officials announced the results of her scans: she suffered fractures to her pelvis and neck. Successful surgery was performed to stabilise her pelvis, and her recovery is being closely monitored by the hospital's trauma team. Fortunately, the neck fractures do not require surgical intervention, as they are expected to heal naturally. There is currently no timeline for her return home.
This summer, Wilson surpassed Julie Krone in career earnings and recently transitioned to a new agent, Tom Patton, after 22 years with Mike Luider. With 55 wins this season, she currently ranks fifth in the rider standings. Wilson's exceptional talent and passion for the sport are dearly missed, and the racing community looks forward to her eventual return.