Australian jockey Tim Bell has dies in Singapore fall
Wednesday 4 November 2015 09:25, UK
Australian jockey Tim Bell has died after falling 12 floors to the ground from his Singapore apartment, police said.
The 22-year-old was found lying motionless at the foot of the building late on Tuesday, a police statement said. It added that he was taken to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, where he died from his injuries.
"Police are investigating the unnatural death," the statement said.
Bell rode 135 winners in his first season as a senior jockey, winning the 2013-14 Brisbane jockey's premiership, and was runner-up last season. He took up a three-month riding contract with the Singapore Turf Club that was due to end next month.
The club said in a statement that unconfirmed reports suggest Bell fell while trying to climb into his apartment after locking himself out.
Trainer Steven Burridge, who was instrumental in bringing Bell to Singapore, called the incident a tragedy.
"Timmy had the whole future ahead of him and not only could he ride, but he was also such a great young man, and was very driven to become a very good jockey," Mr Burridge said.
Bell was a lightweight jockey who could ride at 50kg (110lb). He rode a Group Three winner less than two weeks ago, partnering Sebrose to victory in the El Dorado Classic.
His parents, Grant and Keiley Bell, released a statement thanking racing fraternities and authorities for their son's career.
"Tim will always be remembered as our little hero and best mate," the statement said.
Leading rider Tommy Berry was among those to pay tribute, tweeting: "RIP bud, you will always be remembered as the life of the party. My thoughts and prayers are with his beautiful friends and family."
