By Matt Malone

THE promising career of Wagga apprentice Jason Collins has come to an abrupt halt after a fall at Murrumbidgee Turf Club yesterday.

Collins was taken to hospital yesterday with a broken leg after falling in a jump-out, an unofficial barrier trial.

Collins had surgery last night and is expected to be out for the next "couple of months".

The 16-year-old Wagga boy had made a huge impression since making his race-riding debut last month.

Wagga trainer Gary Colvin said it was such an unfortunate incident for Collins.

"It's a real menace, he was just starting to go," Colvin said.

"They checked everything out and it's only his leg. He's lucky in a way, even though it's not good, it could have been a lot worse."

Colvin has been very impressed with Collins and is sure he will make a swift return to riding.

"It's a big shame but he's only young and he'll bounce back," Colvin said.

"He loves it. He's very keen and always ringing trainers for rides.

"He's upset, of course, but I'm sure he'll bounce back."

The fall took place midway through a jump-out at MTC yesterday.

Collins was riding a horse for trainer Mitchell Hulm when the galloper broke down and fell.

Unfortunately, the horse had to be put down.

Collins has already ridden five career winners from less than 50 race rides.

His most recent winner came aboard Texas Melody at Albury last Saturday.