Time and rest are all that Mark Zahra now requires as he recovers from a broken leg, with specialists confirming that surgery will not be necessary.
The positive update followed medical examinations after Zahra was injured in a fall at the trials last Thursday, an incident that immediately sidelined the champion rider.
The diagnosis has opened the door for a potentially earlier return to race riding than first feared, however Zahra is mindful of the risks involved with pushing too hard too soon. Any premature comeback could jeopardise his recovery and create further complications if not carefully managed.
At this stage, the ideal scenario would see Zahra rehabilitate steadily with the aim of returning in time for the major Autumn Carnival meetings.
Despite being sidelined, the dual Melbourne Cup-winning jockey remains firmly in front in the Victorian Metropolitan Jockeys’ Premiership. Zahra currently leads the standings on 36 wins, holding a commanding ten-win advantage over his nearest rival Craig Williams, who sits second on 26 victories.
