McNamara remains positive after confirmation of paralysis

Injured jockey John Thomas McNamara is said to be in “a very positive frame of mind” despite confirmation today that the serious neck injury he suffered at Cheltenham over two weeks ago has resulted in paralysis.

The 37-year-old amateur rider remains in Frenchay Hospital in Bristol although plans to transfer him to Dublin’s Mater Hospital in due course are in place.

A statement issued jointly by Dr Adrian McGoldrick, Irish Turf Club Senior Medical Officer and Lisa Hancock, CEO, Injured Jockeys Fund, on behalf of the McNamara family said: "JT McNamara remains in the Frenchay Hospital, Bristol. Whilst he suffered a serious neck injury resulting in paralysis, he has made progress in the last week and is in a very positive frame of mind.

“He is greatly appreciative of the many messages, cards and letters received and also wishes to thank the Frenchay Hospital who are looking after him so well.”

McNamara suffered a fall from Galaxy Rock at the first fence in the Kim Muir Chase on Day Three of the Cheltenham Festival.