Top jockey Clifford Lee has emerged from a medically induced coma following a motorcycle accident during his vacation. The 29-year-old sustained a neck fracture after falling headfirst and was promptly taken to the hospital for treatment last week. His boss, Karl Burke, mentioned that Lee, who had a remarkable year with 94 wins, will face an extended period off the racetrack as he recuperates from the injury.
Burke provided an update on Lee’s condition, stating that he is now out of the coma and is scheduled for a surgery to address the fractures. Despite the challenging situation, Burke expressed optimism about Lee’s recovery, highlighting his strength and resilience.
Notably, Lee achieved a significant milestone in August by clinching the Prix Morny at Deauville with Venetian Sun. His successful summer campaign included notable victories aboard horses like Royal Champion, Al Qareem, and Convergent.
While on a break in Greece and later in Scotland with his family, Lee, who had won his last four races, had the unfortunate accident. Burke, who was unaware of Lee’s motorcycle hobby, expressed shock at the incident but acknowledged that it could have been much worse.
Lee’s successful racing season in Britain saw his horses amass a total of £2.3 million in earnings, with standout performer Al Qareem contributing significantly to the total. Despite not coming from a racing background, Lee’s talent and skill have been evident in his strategic race-riding decisions and notable victories in competitive events like the Cambridgeshire.
Supportive messages have poured in for Lee, who is currently hospitalized in Edinburgh. Well-wishers have expressed hopes for his speedy recovery and praised his outstanding performances throughout the season.