‘Immensely talented’ jockey Johnathan Parkes dies ‘suddenly’ aged 35

'IMMENSELY talented' jockey Johnathan Parkes has died abruptly aged 35.

The New Zealand rider had much than 1,000 winners and 12 Group 1s to his name.

A connection from New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing confirmed his passing implicit the weekend.

It read: "On behalf of the New Zealand Racing industry, NZTR is profoundly saddened to larn of the passing of highly respected jockey Johnathan Parkes.

"Our thoughts are with Johnathan’s closest household and friends astatine this time."

Tributes person been held astatine meetings implicit the past fewer days arsenic racing comes to presumption with the nonaccomplishment of 'one of its brightest stars'.

The Australian Jockey’s Association posted: "On behalf of the AJA we nonstop our prayers and emotion to the NZ racing assemblage pursuing the passing of Great NZ jockey Johnathan Parkes. RIP champion."

While proprietor Steve Donavan said: "Absolutely stunned to perceive of the passing of NZ Jockey Johnathan Parkes.

"He was truly talented, helium rode a mates of horses for maine including Tiptronic, I would person enactment him up each time."

Trainer Fraser Auret, who struck up a adjacent enslaved with Parkes, said: "As a moving duo we had 676 starts together, for 123 wins, and 142 placings. This was highlighted with dual Group 1 wins with Julinsky Prince.

“There are conscionable truthful galore endless memories that we volition cherish forever.

“That aside, what we volition miss the astir is Johnathan's humblesness, speedy whit, and infectious smile.

“From the full squad associated with Fraser Auret Racing remainder casual my brother."

More to follow.