Jockey dies after Panama racetrack tragedy

The Panama jockey Jean Carlos Rodríguez,  one of four riders injured in a  spectacular incident died at the Presidente Remón Racetrack on Friday,  October 19, , died at dawn on Monday,. Two other riders who suffered fractures in the incident remain in hospital.

The father of two had been in an induced coma after brain surgery.

Rodríguez was a native of the Chararé community, Las Margaritas de Chepo district.

Lorenzo Lezcano, president of the Association of Jockeys  confirmed the death of the young man And  mourned the death of his “partner and friend.”

He called for racetrack authorities to improve specific situations such as providing fully equipped ambulances equipped for race days and practice days. On the day of the race, only one ambulance was available to transport four injured riders to the hospital

In addition, Lezcano asked for the inspection of the track and that races should not exceed 12 mounts.  (There were 16 horses in Friday’s race).