A jockey who previously won the Kentucky Derby is currently in intensive care due to sustaining multiple injuries following a fall at Churchill Downs. Brian Hernandez Jr made headlines in 2024 by achieving a rare feat of winning both the Kentucky Oaks and Kentucky Derby, becoming the eighth person to do so and the first since 2009.
His victories came aboard Thorpedo Anna in the Oaks and Mystik Dan in the Derby. Hernandez, age 39, was preparing for the Grade 2 Lukas Classic when he rode Mystik Dan at Churchill Downs on Sunday morning. Unfortunately, during the third race of the day, he was thrown off his mount Sgt Garcia after the horse suffered an injury on the far turn.
Subsequently, Sgt Garcia was taken off the track via an equine ambulance, while Hernandez was rushed to the University of Louisville Hospital for medical treatment. Jamie, the jockey’s wife, provided an update on his condition, revealing that he had sustained severe injuries including 7 broken ribs, a punctured lung, a lacerated liver with a repaired bleed, and ongoing monitoring for additional bleeding.
Acknowledging the challenges of a jockey’s life, Jamie emphasized the physical and mental toll of the profession and requested continued prayers for her husband’s recovery. Messages of support poured in, with one individual praising Hernandez for his dedication and skill in the sport and wishing him a full recovery.