Christophe Lemaire takes a fall at Compiègne

The French riding star, Christope Lemaire, can expect to take a break from racing following a dramatic fall last week. Lemaire, one of the most high profile names in the sport, took a fall at Compiègne last Monday sustaining injuries which will see him out of action for a period of some weeks. Lemaire will not be riding on Special Duty in Wednesday's Falmouth Stakes in Newmarket's July Course. Tom Queally, who won a Coral-Eclipse victory last weekend, will be taking his place on the horse whilst the player is restored to full health.

Lemaire made his name after a series of brave performances at Newmarket. Lemaire was expecting to ride Guineas winner Special Duty for the first time due to the absence of an injured Stephane Pasquier. All eyes will no doubt be on Queally who will be expected to prove himself a worthy replacement for Lemaire.

Commenting on Lemaire’s injury, racing manager Teddy Grimthorpe called the fall “a blow for Christophe”.Meanwhile Leamaire’s agent, Helen Barbe, noted that things could have been “a lot worse” for the player. Lemaire is considered to have got off likely after escaping with a broken fibula. “It was a heavy fall. First indications are that he will be out of action for three weeks, at least", said Barbe. Grimthorpe, meanwhile, noted that Special Duty is in “good shape” and can be expected to race well. He added that the Falmouth will be “a tough race" for both Queally and Special Duty. Riding fans will be holding their breaths in anticipation of one of the highlights of the sporting calendar.