Injured Graham Lee out of Cheltenham Festival
A severe hip injury is likely to rule famous jockey, Graham Lee, out of next month’s Cheltenham Festival. The veteran rider got his hip dislocated after a terrible fall from, Rich Lord, at Southwell on Wednesday, February 15.
Lee’s season could be over, as he requires almost six months of time to regain full fitness. The unfortunate incident occurred during the Win Whatever The Result With BetAngel Handicap Chase, where he was unseated from the Ferdy Murphy trained horse.
The injury was thought not to be serious, as initial reports suggested a broken femur. However, the situation went worse when a complete X-ray report indicated an anterior dislocation of his hip that might rule him out for next six months.
As a result, Graham Lee is likely to miss his scheduled meetings at Cheltenham, Aintree and Punchestown.
BHA doctor Alison Green said:
"He's suffered an anterior dislocation of the hip which is a most unusual injury. We'd originally thought the right femur had been fractured but the hospital have been in contact and confirmed the hip was dislocated but they've already put that back.”
"It would be very unusual for the bone to come out of the socket without breaking part of the hip socket and depending on how bad the break is will determine if he needs surgery. He could be out of action from anywhere between three and six months," he added.
Graham Lee has participated in more than 2500 races so far in his career. Alongside 142 Chase victories, the veteran jockey has 166 hurdles triumphs to his credit.
The list of his big-race-wins includes Guinness Galway Hurdle Handicap, John Smith's Maghull Novices' Chase, Swordlestown Cup Novice Chase and many more.
Cheltenham Festival seems to be an unlucky event for the experienced jockey. He had already missed the 2008 extravaganza due to a broken jaw.
Lee’s omission from the big event will be bad news for the whole horse racing fraternity, as many well-known riders from all over the world are due to show their skills and talent in the festival.
On the other hand, Lee’s friends and co-workers are hoping that the rider will be back in action after recovering from the injury quickly.
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