Crowley: I’ll be back riding next year, retirement hasn’t crossed my mind

Jim Crowley has vowed to return to the saddle next season, saying “retirement hasn’t crossed my mind” following a serious fall at York last month.

Shadwell’s retained jockey was injured when his mount Almeraq fell in the Garrowby Stakes, bringing down Tiger Bay and his rider Trevor Whelan, who sustained three breaks to his leg.

Crowley also broke his leg and fractured his pelvis, which caused some internal bleeding, and after undergoing surgery on his injuries, he is eager to return to full fitness.

Crowley said: “I never lost consciousness during the fall, so I remember everything about it, and that proved to be crucial, as I was able to tell the paramedics something wasn’t right with my stomach, which was a result of the internal bleeding, so they were able to deal with it quickly, and that ultimately was the most dicey part of the injuries.

“I’ve had my leg pinned and my pelvis plated, and the surgeon who did this told me I was in better shape leaving him than I was going in, as he had straightened out all my old injuries and the wear and tear caused by them!

“I’m back home in Sussex now, and while it will be a long recovery, and I’ve been told I’ll be in a wheelchair for three months, I reckon I can get it down to two months.

“I’m getting bored now, and while I’ve been able to watch a lot of racing, and golf – the Ryder Cup was brilliant – I’m itching to get back on the golf course, and I’ve bet a mate I’ll be back playing by Christmas Day!”

Coral ambassador Crowley underlined he has no intention of calling time on his riding career at the age of 47 and is thankful he will be able to make a return in due course.

He added: “Sheikha Hissa and the Shadwell team have been brilliant and so supportive, and I want to make it clear I’ll be back riding next year, retirement hasn’t crossed my mind, I’ve still got plenty to give. The injuries will heal, and mentally I feel fine – apart from the boredom – and ultimately I was lucky.

“Graham (Lee) and Freddy (Tylicki) had life-changing falls, so I have to count my blessings, and look forward to getting back in action. And who knows what good horses will be there to welcome me back, another Battaash or Baaeed could be waiting for me.”