JT McNamara put in induced coma after suffering neck injury at Cheltenham

JT McNamara put in induced coma after suffering neck injury at Cheltenham

The renowned amateur rider was partnering Galaxy Rock for trainer Jonjo O'Neill in the Fulke Walwyn Kim Muir Challenge Cup when the pair crashed out at the first fence.

Medical staff were quickly on hand to treat McNamara and it was decided to transfer him to Frenchay Hospital in Bristol for further treatment without delay.

The 37-year-old is being cared for in a spinal unit and staff are awaiting the results of scans which will show the full extent of McNamara's injuries.

Dr Adrian McGoldrick, chief medical officer for the Irish Turf Club, said: "JT has suffered a serious neck injury.

"He is being looked after at the regional spinal unit but as yet he is still waiting for a scan.

"So what we know so far is that he has a neck injury, but we will know far more in the morning when hopefully he will have had his scan."