Brian Toomey targets return to race riding
Last Updated: 27/08/14 3:02pm
Brian Toomey still faces several obstacles if he is to beat the odds and make a fairytale return to the saddle.
The 25-year-old is determined to do whatever it takes to resume his career, despite suffering serious head injuries in a fall at Perth on July 4, 2013.
Toomey was hurt when the Lisa Harrison-trained Solway Dandy fell heavily three out in the Book Now For 2014 Perth Festival Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle.
"I was in hospital for nearly six months. I barely remember a thing from that time," Toomey told At The Races.
"I'd had loads of falls in the past, but in this one I didn't break anything, it was just that the brain was swelling up so much. I was rushed to hospital and they removed part of my brain to make room for the brain to swell.
"I don't realise how lucky I've been. They said there was a three per cent chance of me surviving. That's not a whole lot.
"I want to come back because it's what I love doing. It's all I want to do. Some people might think I'm crazy, but if someone fell down the stairs would they walk up the stairs again?
"I wasn't allowed to ride out until it had been a year. The minute it was I started riding out for Brian Ellison every day and I really appreciate his help.
"I've done loads of tests. Obviously there have been jockeys who've had head injuries before, but actually none as serious as mine.
"There'll probably be some more tests I'll have to do and anything I'm asked to do I'll put 100 per cent effort into it."
Toomey will be subject to stringent tests by the British Horseracing Authority if he is to fulfil his dream and race ride again.
"Jockeys and riders are required to meet the BHA 'Medical Standards for Fitness to Ride' on an on-going basis," said BHA media manager Robin Mounsey.
"For those who wish to return to race-riding following a serious injury, appropriate medical examinations and tests will be undertaken to determine that they meet the medical standards."
Toomey knows he is some way off his goal yet, but will keep on going.
"I've schooled over fences and I've had a fall and I took it well. If I got back it might inspire some people who are ill and those who've been injured and I think it can be done," he said.
"I've done loads of work and researched sports men and women who have had similar injuries and have got back. It's going to be tricky, but my surgeons and doctors are very happy with me.
"If I can prove I'm an equal risk as other jockeys in the weighing room that would be a big plus. I had to resit my driving test and passed so I'm back on the road, so hopefully I'll be able to ride in a race."