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Media Release: Statement about Melanie Tyndall

Vale Melanie Tyndall

Thoroughbred Racing SA is deeply saddened by the tragic death of jockey Melanie Tyndall who lost her life following a race fall in Darwin on Saturday 31 August 2019.

The news has shocked the local racing community in South Australia, where Melanie commenced her riding career.

Melanie was first indentured as an apprentice to trainer Gordon Richards in August 2008 and was granted permission to ride in races in December that same year. She rode in her first race at Ceduna on 31 December 2008, riding her first winner at the same track on Brookman on 17 January 2009.

Melanie subsequently transferred to Jim Smith in October 2009 before later transferring her indentures to Gary Searle at Gawler in November 2010. She was granted permission to ride in the Metropolitan area in May 2011 and, in August that same year, she rode her first Metropolitan winner on the Gary Searle-trained Grant Taj at Morphettville.

Fifty-six of Melanie’s 150 career wins came in South Australia. Notably, Melanie rode seven trebles in her career; one each at Broken Hill and Roxby Downs, two at Katherine and three in Darwin.

Melanie was an exceptional individual, with impeccable manners and an exemplary demeanour. She was also a fine horsewoman and was a highly respected member of the TRSA Apprentice Academy during her time as an apprentice.

TRSA extends its sincere condolences to Melanie’s family and friends. She will always be remembered not only as a true professional who dearly loved horses but also for her beautiful personality. Melanie will be sadly missed by all.

Media enquiries: Alexandra Green, Michels Warren on 0418 608 038 or agreen@micwar.com.au

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