Hastings rallies for April Friesen · 23.06.10
The last race at Hastings on May 15 saw three horses go down during the stretch drive. The horses — Market Flair, Seliman, and Willie Katchem — were unhurt — Seliman actually kept running and finished the race by himself. Two of the jockeys — Ismael Mosqueira and Isaias Cardenas — were bruised and shaken up, but otherwise escaped without serious injury.
The third jockey, April Friesen, was not so lucky. Her spine was fractured in several places, and she also suffered three broken ribs and a punctured lung. She spent several weeks in hospital, where 12-inch titanium rods were inserted into her spine to stabilize it. From all reports Friesen escaped without paralysis, but will likely never ride again.
The Hastings racing community rallied around their fallen colleague, to offer support and to raise money to help pay for her expenses during her long recovery. A silent auction, 50/50 raffle draw, and other fund-raisers were organized, and Hastings’ parent company Great Canadian Gaming Corporation promised to match all money raised up to $5000. Cash donations rolled in, and local sports teams (Canucks, Giants, Whitecaps, Canadians, and Lions) donated tickets and autographed items for the auction. The auctions and other events came together on June 19, “April Friesen Day” at the track. At best estimate close to $35,000 was raised, and April herself was able to attend — limited to a wheelchair for the most part, but able to stand up at the end to thank all those who were there that day.
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