Champion Queensland jockey Stathi Katsidis, booked to ride Shoot Out in the 2010 Cox Plate on Saturday, has been found dead in his Brisbane home this morning.
Police are investigating the cause of death but have said there were no suspicious circumstances.
The talented 31-year-old hoop, who has had a troubled past with drugs and alcohol, was regarded as one of Queensland’s best jockeys. Katsidis was the regular rider for the John Wallace-trained Shoot Out and was set to be aboard the Group 1 winner at Moonee Valley this Saturday in the $3 million Group 1 Cox Plate (2040m).
The shock news leaves Shoot Out without a known mount for the Cox Plate at this stage.
Stay tuned for further Cox Plate news including what jockey will replace Katsidis aboard Shoot Out on Saturday.
The Races.com.au team extend their condolences to the family and friends of Katsidis.
