Jockey Ramon Dominguez, a patient at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, was transferred Jan. 24 from the neurological intensive care unit to a medical step-down unit where he will continue his recovery. The three-time Eclipse Award-winning rider was diagnosed with a skull fracture as a result of a Jan. 18 spill at Aqueduct Racetrack.
"The step-down unit is an intermediate location between the ICU and a regular, inpatient room," said his wife, Sharon Dominguez. "Ramon's doctors say he is recovering well, and we're beginning to discuss his rehab options."
There is currently no timetable for Dominguez's release from New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, and doctors have prohibited him from having visitors.
"We're so appreciative of everyone's support, thoughts, and prayers," Sharon Dominguez said. "Many people have also given generously in Ramon's name to the Permanently Disabled Jockeys Fund, which is a cause he has always been passionate about. Those vital donations provide financial assistance to permanently disabled riders, and we would encourage anyone who wishes to show support for Ramon to donate at www.pdjf.org."
Dominguez was unseated when his mount, Convocation, appeared to clip heels with the eventual winner, Sovereign Default. Convocation, who stumbled and fell, did not appear to be seriously injured in the incident and was walked off the track.
A native of Venezuela, Dominguez led all riders on the NYRA circuit in 2012 with 322 victories and led the nation in earnings with $25.6 million. Fellow New York jockeys John Velazquez and Javier Castellano accepted the 2012 Eclipse Award on behalf on Dominguez at the awards ceremony Jan. 19 in Hallandale Beach, Fla.