Jockey Rachel Venniker was set to make history as the first female rider to compete in the Durban July on Saturday, until a freak accident robbed her of the opportunity. 

Gold Circle’s events and marketing manager Stephen Marshall confirmed on Tuesday that Venniker, who suffered whiplash and a concussion, had to be withdrawn from riding Red Saxon in the main race on Saturday. 

“This happened after a fall and it has now ruled her out of this year’s race. This is disappointing but fortunately this is precautionary as she suffered a concussion,” he said...