Inquest begins into death of champion jockey Simone Montgomerie

THE NT Coroner has begun an inquest into the “shocking and unexpected” death of champion jockey Simone Montgomerie.

Simone Montgomerie died in a race fall in the Lightning Plate in Darwin 12 months ago. Picture: Supplied Greg Irvine.

THE NT Coroner has begun an inquest into the “shocking and unexpected” death of champion jockey Simone Montgomerie.

Counsel assisting the coroner, Dr Peggy Dwyer, this morning told the court Ms Montgomerie was leading the 1000m sprint on the home stretch when she was flung from the saddle of Riahgrand at the Darwin Cup meet on August 5, 2013.

“She was clearly going to win the race,” Dr Dwyer said.

The court heard it was believed the horse shied suddenly, spooked by a nearby pedestrian crossing.

Other possible causes will be examined.

REPORT FINDS DEATH WAS ACCIDENTAL

“Horse racing is dangerous and no recommendations can remove all the risk,” Dr Dwyer told Coroner Greg Cavanagh.

“(But the inquest will investigate) what caused the horse to shy and address other safety concerns.

“Did he react to the crossing near the finish line?”

The position of crossings on race tracks will be examined. The court heard many jockeys believed they should be as far as possible from where horses are at their highest speed, but this depended on the distance of a race and layout of the track.

Dr Dwyer said police and worksafe investigations revealed the Darwin Turf Club had complied with industry standards.

But Ms Montgomerie’s safety vest did not, and it’s relevance will be investigated.

She fell at a speed of up to 65kmh and was in cardiac arrest - with severe internal chest injuries - when paramedics rushed to her aid on the track.

Dr Dwyer said Ms Montgomerie - who was working for Darwin trainer Gary Clarke, who will give evidence at the inquest - was familiar with Riahgrand, a quiet but nervous thoroughbred.

Her death devastated her family, and she left behind a small daughter Kodah.

Her parents and racing industry bosses are in court today.