• Horse racing

McNamara no longer in induced coma

ESPN staff
March 25, 2013
JT McNamara rode Teaforthree to victory at last year's Cheltenham Festival © PA Photos
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JT McNamara is no longer in an induced coma and is fully alert, but the jockey requires full-time ventilation to aid him with his breathing.

The 37-year-old has been in the Frenchay Hospital in Bristol since fracturing the C3 and C4 vertebrae in a fall from Galaxy Rock at the Cheltenham Festival.

He was placed in an induced coma and underwent a lengthy operation, but is now making progress and a statement has confirmed the intention to move McNamara to the National Spinal Unit at The Mater Hospital in Dublin.

A statement issued jointly by Dr Adrian McGoldrick, Turf Club senior medical officer and Lisa Hancock, chief executive of the Injured Jockeys Fund on behalf of the McNamara Family read: "JT McNamara remains in a stable condition at Frenchay Hospital, Bristol. He is now fully alert but requires full-time ventilation at present.

"In due course he will be transferred to the National Spinal Unit at The Mater Hospital, Dublin, where he will be closer to his family.

"His wife Caroline and family very much appreciate everyone's continued good wishes and prayers on JT's behalf."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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