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Vale Elvis ‘Ricky’ Thurgood by Ryan Reynolds Source:-racing Racing is mourning the loss of popular jockey Elvis ‘Ricky’ Thurgood. Thurgood, who suffered a catastrophic fall at Caulfield in the 1980 Easter Cup, died peacefully at Melbourne’s Alfred Hospital overnight, aged 62. Thurgood was on board Taras Regent when tragedy struck, with his mount suffering a fatal heart attack and collapsing. Thurgood was rushed to hospital and doctors told the family it was unlikely he would survive the night. His injuries included a traumatic brain injury of the highest magnitude, as well as extreme and multiple physical deficits that saw him require round-the-clock care for his every need. But showing unbelievable spirit and courage, Thurgood not only survived but thrived for 41 more years. He is survived by his parents Noel and Doris, brother Derek and sister Debbie, as well as his immediate family Brian, Wendy, Andrew, Kellie and Vanessa. “As ...