The horse racing community is in mourning following the tragic passing of 19-year-old apprentice jockey Tommie Jakes.
In a joint statement issued by the Injured Jockeys’ Fund and Professional Jockeys Association, it was announced that Tommie Jakes had passed away at his home near Newmarket. Described as a beloved son, brother, and valued member of George Boughey’s racing team, his family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Tommie Jakes, who recently rode at Nottingham, was scheduled to ride for trainer Ismail Mohammed at Chelmsford. Known as a rising star in the jockey world, Jakes had achieved 59 wins from 519 appearances since 2023, with his first victory on the veteran horse Suzi’s Connoisseur in March of that year.
Coming from a racing background, Jakes inherited his passion for the sport from his father and had success with trainers such as Linda Perratt and Alice Haynes. The British Horseracing Authority expressed deep sorrow over Jakes’ untimely death, highlighting his talent, horsemanship, and positive attitude that had garnered praise from trainers.
The racing community, including Boughey’s team and colleagues at Newmarket, is grieving the loss of Jakes. Support services will be provided to those affected, with gestures of respect planned at upcoming race meetings. Boughey’s social media post paid tribute to Jakes as a valuable and well-loved member of their team, emphasizing his exceptional talent and character.
Support for those affected by this tragedy is available through various helplines, including the jockey’s helpline, Racing Welfare, and Samaritans.