The horse racing community is mourning the tragic death of jockey Miguel Mena, who was struck by a vehicle and killed this week.
The American horse racing community is mourning the tragic death of jockey Miguel Mena, who was killed in a pedestrian accident in the US this week.
Churchill Downs Racetrack confirmed in a statement that Mena was struck by a vehicle and killed in Louisville on Sunday, six days from his 35th birthday. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
He leaves behind a wife and two young children.
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“This news is absolutely shocking, terrible and heartbreaking,” Churchill Downs Racetrack President Mike Anderson said in a statement.
“Our team is devastated to learn of Miguel’s passing. He was such a courageous rider who fought to overcome several challenges and adversity.
“We’ll miss his bright smile. Our deepest condolences are extended to his many friends, fellow riders and family, and our immediate thoughts are with his wife April and his daughters Naelah and Montserrat.”
Jeffersontown Police Chief Rick Sanders told The Associated Press that Mena got out of his car, crossed the highway, climbed over a wall and was struck by a vehicle travelling westbound.
Mena’s death was ruled “accidental” by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office in Kentucky.
It was determined that the jockey had died of blunt force trauma. No charges against the driver of the vehicle are pending, according to police, but an investigation is underway.
The Peruvian-born American registered 2079 wins over his stellar career. According to Churchill Downs Racetrack, the two-time Stephen Foster Stakes winner accumulated $AUD97,555,040 in prize money over 16,234 races.
Mena’s final race was last Saturday at Keeneland in Lexington, Kentucky.
Fellow jockeys paid tribute to Mena — a huge football fan who supported Manchester City — after his death was confirmed.
Alex Canchari said: “My heart hurts right now. I can’t believe this.
“RIP my friend Miguel Mena. A devoted father, an amazing/fearless jockey and a role model to so many.
“My heart is broken for Miguel’s family. I have no words. Rest easy Cholo.”
Mena’s close friend and jockey agent Jose Santos Jr tweeted: “RIP Miguel Mena.
“Over the past two years I’ve had the fortune to work side by side with Miguel.
“One of the most likeable guys I had been around. Eternally appreciate the opportunity he gave me.
“Condolences to his family and all that loved him. RIP Cholo. Gone but not forgotten.”
With The Sun
Originally published as ‘Absolutely shocking’: Star jockey Miguel Mena dead at 34 after accident
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