AP McCoy is “devastated” by Graham Lee’s injuries and vows to do whatever it takes for his old rival “for as long as it takes”.
Legendary jockey AP McCoy said he was “devastated” by Graham Lee’s injuries – as all racers were urged to pray for the injured rider.
Grand National hero Lee, 47, remains in a critical condition in hospital after suffering a horrific fall in Newcastle last Friday evening.
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He has suffered damage to his spinal cord but in a brief positive update it was confirmed his sedation has been reduced.
McCoy, the 20-time champion jockey, vowed to do whatever he could to help his old rival “for as long as it takes.”
Speaking in his role as president of the Injured Jockeys Fund, McCoy, 49, said: “Like everyone in racing, we at the IJF are all devastated by the news of the injuries sustained by Graham Lee in his horrific crash.”
“All our thoughts are with Graham, his wife Becky and their family.
“As bad as Graham’s injuries are, please be assured that our team at IJF will address his needs to support his recovery and his predicament for as long as necessary.”
“Whatever help he and his family need, we will be there to provide it.”
BHA boss Julie Harrington said they would do everything they could to help his family and urged the sport to pray for one of their loved ones.
She said: “We are shocked to hear the disturbing news about Graham Lee’s injuries.”
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“Our thoughts are with his family and friends and the entire sport is praying for one of its best ambassadors.”
“We are doing everything we can to support Graham and his family and we ask everyone to respect his family’s privacy during this time.”
A statement regarding Lee’s health was released on Sunday evening.
It said: “Jockey Graham Lee’s MRI scan has shown that he has suffered an unstable fracture of the cervical spine, causing damage to the spinal cord as well as damage to the blood vessels in the mid-neck region.”
“He remains in the ITU with respiratory support at the Royal Victoria Infirmary Hospital, Newcastle, but it has been possible to reduce his sedation.”
“This is a very serious injury and at this early stage it is not possible to predict the extent of long-term recovery.
“Graham’s family is very grateful for the many messages of support they have received.”
Lee won the 2004 Grand National at Amberleigh House for trainer Ginger McCain, who also trained Red Rum.
The Irish jockey had won more than 1,000 jumps before switching to flat racing in 2012.
