Jockeys Melanie Tyndall, Roger Booth, Simone Montgomerie and more to be remembered this Saturday

THE horseriding heroes of the racetrack will be celebrated on Saturday with a meet in their honour

Jockey Stan Tsaikos with Hattan Man. He'll be wearing special silks for the commemorative race that honours Melanie Tyndall who died when she fell off her horse during a race in Darwin in 2019. Picture: Che Chorley

THE horseriding heroes of the racetrack will be celebrated on Saturday with a meet in their honour.

The race day at Darwin Turf Club, the organisation will commemorate jockeys who have lost their lives and celebrate the achievements of current and former jockeys, in partnership with the National Jockeys Trust.

The trust provides support for former and current riders and their families through serious injury, illness or the death of a jockey.

There will be four races, including one dedicated to jockey and police officer Melanie Tyndall who tragically passed away in August last year.

Melanie Tyndall and "Saltito". Picture: GLENN CAMPBELL

The 32-year-old was riding horse Restless when she clipped the heels of a horse in front of her and was dislodged from her mount as they entered the home straight.

She later passed away from her injuries.

Jockey Stan Tsaikos will be wearing the National Jockeys’ Trust silks in the Melanie Tyndall Memorial Handicap.

Mr Tsaikos, who knew Tyndall through the sport, said the lives and passions of jockeys such as her would always be remembered.

“She was lovely girl, you know, very much loved by everyone … It was just very unfortunate what happened to her,” he said.

“She’s not forgotten.”

Jockey Stan Tsaikos with Hattan Man. He'll be wearing special silks for the commemorative race that honours Melanie Tyndall who died when she fell off her horse during a race in Darwin in 2019. Picture: Che Chorley

Mr Tsaikos was thankful for the support of the trust and the Darwin Turf Club.

“It’s been a wonderful cause obviously for the families and for us, fellow jockeys that are out there doing our best racing,” he said.

Darwin Turf Club chief executive Brad Morgan said it was critical to spread awareness of the trust and celebrate jockeys.

“It’s a day we remember riders like Melanie Tyndall, Roger Booth and Simone Montgomerie and the lasting impact they’ve had on racing here in the Territory,” he said.

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“We could not run this industry without our jockeys and we’re thankful for the hard work they put in and sacrifices they make every day to keep this industry going.”

The first of four races begins at 3.25pm.