Coroner Probes French Apprentice Jockey Marina Morel’s Death After Trackwork Fall – Gulgong, NSW – 8 February 2022

Incident Overview

On Tuesday, 8 February 2022, French apprentice jockey Marina Morel, 30, died four days after a fall during trackwork at the Gulgong Turf Club in western New South Wales. She was riding a mare named Lina’s Choice when the horse collapsed and threw her over its head.

A coronial inquest is examining whether the mare was returned to work contrary to veterinary advice and whether earlier warning signs of injury were missed or inadequately acted upon.

• Fatalities:
  • On Tuesday, 8 February 2022, French apprentice jockey Marina Morel, 30, died four days after a fall during trackwork at the Gulgong Turf Club in western New South Wales
• Injuries:
  • None reported.

• On Tuesday, 8 February 2022, French apprentice jockey Marina Morel, 30, died four days after a fall during trackwork at the Gulgong Turf Club in western New South Wales

Deputy State Coroner Derek Lee is conducting a coronial inquest into Ms Morel’s death. The inquest is examining whether the mare was returned to work contrary to veterinary advice, whether a stress fracture in the horse’s left front leg was known or should have been detected, and whether adequate safety procedures were in place. Counsel Assisting the Coroner, David Kell, presented evidence that the mare returned to training approximately five and a half months earlier than recommended by a veterinarian following its March 2021 leg injury.

The coronial inquest is continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding Ms Morel’s death. Any persons with information about the management of Lina’s Choice, the mare’s fitness for work, or the events of 8 February 2022 are encouraged to contact the NSW Coroner’s Court or NSW Police. Further evidence is expected to be heard as the inquest proceeds.