Canberra track work rider Riharna Thomson died on Friday morning following serious head injuries sustained from an accident at Thoroughbred Park on Tuesday.
Thomson, 22, was riding Chosen Prayer and fell when the horse broke its leg in a freak accident that has rocked Canberra's tight-knit racing community.
The mare, trained by Keith Dryden and Scott Collings, had to be euthanised, and officials are investigating details of the fall.
"Riharna was a dedicated track rider rising early every morning to ride track work and was recently promoted to the position of stable foreman," Canberra Racing Club said in a statement. "She was a young and enthusiastic horse lover who was well respected and loved amongst the local stable fraternity."
"Everyone in the racing family at Thoroughbred Park is deeply affected by the passing of Riharna. Club employees and stable staff are receiving support and have been offered counselling services locally by Rev Steven Prior and with the assistance of Racing NSW Pastor Rev Colin Watts and through the Racing NSW Racing Mates Assistance Program."
The tragic death comes ahead of Canberra's marquee day of racing, Black Opal Stakes Day, on Sunday.
A ceremony honouring the memory of Thomson will be held in the mounting yard at Thoroughbred Park before the first race at 1pm on Sunday.
Worksafe ACT is investigating the accident. The Canberra Racing Club stewards will also investigate.