One of the standout jockeys of the Flat racing season has been hospitalized following a neck injury sustained in a motorcycle accident.
Clifford Lee, a 29-year-old stable jockey working with Karl Burke, has had a remarkable season, achieving 94 wins, including his first Group 1 victory aboard Venetian Sun in the Prix Morny. Despite his recent suspension, Lee was on track to reach 100 wins before the incident occurred during his holiday.
Burke, Lee’s employer, shared that Lee had a fall while on vacation in Scotland, riding a cross-country motorbike at a moderate speed when the accident happened. Lee, originally from south-east London with no racing background, has excelled since joining Burke’s team in Yorkshire.
Known for his exceptional pace judgment, Lee secured consecutive victories in the challenging Cambridgeshire races with Boiling Point and Liberty Lane, both trained by Burke. Well-wishers have been sending messages of support to Lee, who is currently receiving treatment in a hospital in Edinburgh.
Supporters have expressed their hopes for Lee’s swift recovery, praising his outstanding performance throughout the season and speculating on promising opportunities awaiting him in the future.