In a moment that tugs at the heartstrings, a young jockey struggled to hold back tears during an emotional interview, dedicating his recent victory to the memory of his best friend, Tommie Jakes, whose sudden passing has left the racing world in mourning. But here's where it gets even more poignant—this wasn't just any win; it was a tribute to a friendship cut tragically short. Tommie Jakes, a rising star in the racing community at just 19 years old, was found near his family home in Newmarket last week, with police confirming his death as nonsuspicious. And this is the part most people miss—Jakes’ death came mere hours after his final race at Nottingham, leaving those who knew him grappling with the abruptness of his loss.
Mason Paetel, Jakes’ closest friend and a 17-year-old jockey himself, rode to victory at Wolverhampton on Tuesday night, delivering a heartfelt message to Sky Sports Racing afterward. His voice quivered as he declared, ‘Tonight is a special night—I lost my friend Tommie the other day, my best friend. That was for Tommie.’ Paetel’s raw emotion underscored the profound impact Jakes had on those around him, both on and off the track.
The racing community has rallied to honor Jakes’ memory, with moments of silence observed at racecourses and jockeys wearing black armbands as a mark of respect. But here’s where it gets controversial—while many celebrate Jakes’ talent and potential, others are left questioning the pressures young riders face in a high-stakes sport. A GoFundMe page has been set up to support his grieving family and create a lasting tribute to his legacy. You can contribute here: GoFundMe Link.
Tommie Jakes was more than just a promising jockey; he was a beloved son, brother, and teammate. Trainer Linda Perratt, who worked closely with Jakes, shared a touching tribute on social media, recalling his transformation from a shy boy to a confident, fun-loving young man. ‘The racing world lost a huge talent,’ she wrote. ‘We lost a much-loved friend.’ But here’s a thought to ponder—how do we better support young athletes like Tommie, who carry the weight of expectation while navigating the challenges of adolescence?
The British Horseracing Authority (BHA) issued a statement expressing their devastation over Jakes’ passing, praising his talent and the positive impact he had on those around him. CEO Brant Dunshea emphasized the importance of providing support to Jakes’ family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. And this is where you come in—what steps do you think the racing community should take to ensure the well-being of its youngest members? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
If this story has affected you, remember that help is available. You can contact the Samaritans for free on 116123 or Racing Welfare on 0800 6300 443. Let’s keep the conversation going and honor Tommie’s memory by fostering a more supportive environment for all.
