3 minute read

French jockey Davy Bonilla sure knows all about horse-racing throwing a curveball at you just when things are starting to look up.

The multiple Group-winning jockey was on cloud nine after he secured his first big race at Kranji, the Group 3 New Year Cup aboard outsider Lizarre on January 1, but two days later, he literally came crashing back down to Earth during a seemingly innocuous incident, and is now nursing a dislocated wrist.

Bonilla, who only commenced riding duties at his new six-month licence last November, was quietly heading towards the track aboard his last trackwork ride for the day, Jet Ace, when the Sam Chua-trained gelding slipped in the holding area, causing his rider to fall rather clumsily. Feeling pain in his right wrist, Bonilla was immediately sent to Gleneagles Hospital for precautionary x-rays which, however, revealed he had pulled his ligaments in that area.

Luckily, Bonilla had escaped more serious injury, but the doctor’s verdict as to his time on the sidelines was about one week. Though such a setback could not have come at a worse time, especially after he felt his winning momentum was on the upswing following his New Year Cup triumph, Bonilla is already gearing up to be back in the swing of things.

“For sure, this injury is disappointing as I felt my luck was starting to turn around and now I have to miss four race meetings,” said the 39-year-old, who rode five winners from 55 rides at Kranji last year.

“I was really pleased with that win with Lizarre as there is nothing like a Group win to boost your confidence. It is not only a great source of pride and motivation, it also puts you on the map.

“The horse was walking quietly on the rubber track at the holding area when it slipped on a puddle of water. I landed awkwardly and knew my wrist was in trouble.

“X-rays at the hospital confirmed the ligaments attaching the radius to my right wrist were luxated (dislocated). They had to pull everything right back in its original place and it was very painful!

“But it could have been worse as I’ve had much worst injuries than that. It’s just that I can’t believe it occurred while the horse was only walking…

“Anyway, my wrist is getting better and better every day. I should be right to come back next week, either on January 18 (Friday) or 20 (Sunday).”

Already booked for 12 rides (including Jet Ace on Sunday) last weekend, Bonilla had no other choice but to give them up. Three were scratched while none of the remaining rides won. He will not be available for rides this weekend either.

“I can’t do anything about it. I prefer to take a backseat and give myself all the time needed to recuperate first and come back 100%,” said Bonilla.

“Once my doctor gives me the green light, I should be back early next week for trackwork. I may go to the races this Sunday, just to keep myself busy!”