Jockey Tommie Jakes dies at home aged 19 as racing is plunged into mourning for much-loved apprentice rider
RACING has been plunged into mourning after the death of 19-year-old jockey Tommie Jakes.
The apprentice rider was a popular member of the weighing room and rode for top trainer George Boughey.
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Racing has been left devastated after the death of hugely promising jockey Tommie Jakes at the age of 19
Jakes was a natural in front of camera and had been enjoying a brilliant season on the track, winning almost £200,000 for owners
An IJF/PJA joint-statement read: “It is with deep sadness that we report the death of licenced apprentice jockey Tommie Jakes, 19, who tragically died at home this morning near Newmarket.
“Tommie was a much-loved son and brother, and a popular member of George Boughey’s racing team.
“His parents Jeremy and Tonie ask that their privacy is respected at this terrible time.”
Jakes’ final ride came just yesterday afternoon at Nottingham, where he finished seventh of nine on a 125-1 outsider trained by Ismail Mohammed.
And only 12 days ago, on October 18, he had what sadly turned out to be his last winner aboard Classic-winning handler Boughey’s Fouroneohfever at Catterick.
Jakes, who was based in Suffolk, had ridden 59 winners from 522 career rides and had amassed impressive prize money earnings of more than £500,000.
He had been enjoying a brilliant year on the track, having recorded 19 wins from 188 runs and bringing owners almost £200,000.
Jakes had been described as a jockey ‘going places’ when making a name for himself with a string of victories on all-weather tracks.
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Punters had been quick to label him a ‘lovely lad’ whose talent in the saddle had marked him out as one who could make the very top.
His sudden passing has left people who knew him feeling ‘completely empty’.
Jose Santos, assistant to Mohammed, told the Racing Post: “We’re really shocked. It’s hard to believe.
“I feel completely empty as he rode out for us twice a week and always seemed happy and positive.
“He never showed any signs of having any kind of problems.
“I know he didn’t smoke, I know he didn’t do drugs or drink, and for everyone in the yard it’s a massive shock.
“He said he’d see me tomorrow and that was it. It was the last I spoke to him. I still don’t believe it. I just don’t get it.”
Punters were just as heartbroken to learn of Jakes’ death.
One wrote: “Terribly sad news. I thought he was destined for great things. Such a bright and talented young lad. God rest him.”
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And another posted on X: “Such tragic news about young Tommie Jakes. Thinking of all his family.”
More to follow.
