Jockey Alex Thomas continues to improve after spill

Jockey Alex Thomas, who was badly injured in a spill at Charles Town on July 25, has made substantial progress in his recovery and expects to soon be released from Inova Fairfax Hospital in Falls Church, Va.

Thomas, 32, is out of intensive care, off the respirator that he needed after the accident, and is walking at the hospital daily. Thomas broke most of his ribs, punctured his lungs, and suffered facial injuries, among other injuries, in the four-horse accident.

Thomas, who sounded strong on the phone Wednesday, said he is “blown away” by all of the people who took an interest in him and by how many people reached out to him. Thomas is going to continue his rehabilitation at the house of his uncle, John Jacobs, in Gainesville, Va. Thomas said he is “not done racing” and plans to continue to ride once his doctors clear him to do so.

“I’m determined to keep going and be the best rider I can,” Thomas said.