Sport

Acrobatic Irish jockey gets thrown from saddle, goes on to win race

AN IRISH jockey pulled off an amazing recovery after being thrown from his saddle – by going on to win the race.

Jack Kennedy from Kerry was riding Robin Des Mana for trainer Gordon Elliot in the 2.35 at Clonmel on Thursday.

However at the fourth fence, the 7-2 shot landed awkwardly, flinging the 18-year-old from the saddle.

The jockey was left hanging off the side of the horse, facing the opposite direction, with one arm desperately slung around the animal’s neck.

He managed to clamber back onto the horse at a right angle, but the gelding then collided with the rails, further rattling the stricken jockey.

Absolutely unbelievable! @jackkennedy15 @ClonmelR pic.twitter.com/lCuA0YXAac

— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) December 7, 2017

Fortunately, Kennedy managed to right himself and get back in the saddle, but even more remarkably, he went on to win.

Finding himself in fifth place, the jockey managed to take the lead and held off the challenge of 50-1 shot Kiera Royale to seal victory.

Speaking after the race, the jockey explained: "I was a little bit embarrassed that I got thrown out of the saddle so I said I'd better try and stay on him.

“I got shot out of the saddle, it was a silly little mistake and I thought I was gone, but I didn't fancy getting galloped on.”

Kennedy is one of Ireland’s brightest young jockeys and has been tipped for stardom.

His heroics at Clonmel will do his chances no harm!

Reaction to Kennedy’s acrobatic recovery

Amazing. Best recovery I've seen in 25 years working in betting shops...and to win as well just unbelievable!!! Take a bow Jack.?

— Dean Munnings (@dean_munnings) December 7, 2017

And then had the cheek to win the feckin thing ???

— alan hammond (@caspersgoulies) December 7, 2017

Phenomenal. Think this one will be talked about for years! It's even better than the 1995 Royal Rumble when @ShawnMichaels hung on to the ropes and rallied to win.

— Tommy (@TB1842) December 7, 2017