LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Brian Hernandez Jr., the veteran jockey who captured the 2024 Kentucky Derby aboard Mystik Dan, was seriously injured in a spill during Sunday’s third race at Churchill Downs.

Hernandez was thrown when his mount, Sgt. Garcia, suffered an apparent injury approaching the far turn in a $30,000 maiden claiming race for 2-year-olds. The colt, trained by Kenny McPeek, was taken off the track by equine ambulance. Hernandez, 39, was transported to University of Louisville Hospital.

His wife, Jamie Hernandez, shared Sunday night that the rider is in intensive care, being treated for seven broken ribs, a punctured lung, and a lacerated liver that required a procedure to stop internal bleeding. She asked for prayers and support, saying the family remains hopeful as doctors

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