Auckland racing officials are praising the quick work of track staff in saving the life of a jockey involved in a freak accident at Ellerslie Race Course on Saturday.
Trudy Thornton was leading a race when her horse suddenly haemorrhaged and died.
Race officials say she was thrown from the horse which then rolled onto her, making it impossible for her to breathe.
Trudy Thornton says the first thing she knew something was wrong was when the horse faltered and within two steps fell to the ground.
Ms Thornton says she remembers being thrown clear of the horse, but then before losing consciousness being aware the horse had died and was on top of her.
The course veterinarian, Ivan Bridge, arrived on the scene as track staff were pulling the horse away.
He said ambulance staff then quickly put Ms Thornton on oxygen before taking her from the track.
Ms Thornton says she has broken ribs and needs to go to hospital so her liver can be checked, but hopes to be racing again in three weeks.
