A harness racing judge has sustained significant injuries after the perch in which he was stationed gave out and sent him falling to the ground.
The incident took place on Sunday, January 29 at the Goulburn Paceway in New South Wales, according to an article by the Goulburn Post. The steward in question, Todd Sharwood, was in a viewing tower when the floor underneath him gave out.
The article states that Sharwood was taken to hospital after the fall and it was determined that he sustained a broken pelvis, fractured vertebrae and other injuries. Luckily, it is believed that the judge will not have to undergo any surgeries, although he remains in hospital and will have to go through a rehabilitation process.
Goulburn Harness Racing Club Secretary Mark Croatto has stated that Sharwood has movement in his limbs; and Harness Racing NSW Chief Executive John Dumesny has been quoted as saying that the steward was encouraged after having walked 14 steps as part of his early rehabilitation.
“[Sharwood] received a positive report from specialists following his MRI (scan) that he will not need any surgery for his injuries, just rest and recovery for six weeks,” Dumesny was quoted as saying.
Croatto has said that the incident came as “a complete shock” and that he is awaiting the report and recommendations from investigators.
Please join Standardbred Canada in wishing Todd Sharwood a speedy and complete recovery from his injuries.
(With files from the Goulburn Post)