After being out of action for over three months due to a back injury, jockey Jason Maskiell is ready to make a comeback to race riding at Benalla on Friday. Maskiell, who rode only one race at Pakenham in February before his comeback was aborted, sustained fractures to his T9 and T10 vertebrae in December last year.
Maskiell expressed his excitement about returning to racing after a long hiatus.
“I’m ready to go, I’m a bit up and about actually! It’s been a long time, it’s been a bit weird waking up without a purpose – very strange.”
Maskiell is scheduled to head to Benalla for two rides on Friday shared his thoughts on his injury and his preparation for his return to racing.
“I haven’t noticed the pain this time around. I probably came back too early last time (in February) and it just wasn’t right. I’m going really good, I’ve been doing trackwork at Pakenham most mornings, which has been great.”
Despite being sidelined for a significant period, Maskiell has managed to ride 18 winners this season, which is impressive given the injury and interrupted season. He maintained a strike rate of just below 10 per cent.
Maskiell said he’s looking forward to the challenge and is optimistic about his chances of success.
“I’m feeling confident, and I’m looking forward to getting back out there and doing what I love.”
