Pat’s vow as tumour discovered

PAT SMULLEN, the nine-time champion flat jockey, won’t be riding ‘for the foreseeable future’ for health reasons.

Smullen, 40, said yesterday: ‘Most people will have been aware that I have been in hospital in recent days undergoing tests.

‘I was showing some of the symptoms associated with a gallstone problem but it was discovered that the problem was more serious.

‘A tumour was discovered and consequently I won’t be riding for the foreseeable future. It’s a new challenge for me and it’s one I am fully focused on overcoming.

‘I’ve got tremendous support from family and friends, both within racing and outside of racing, and I’m very positive about making a full recovery.’

Smullen is stable jockey to the powerful Dermot Weld yard and the partnership teamed up to win the Investec Derby and Irish Derby with Harzand in 2016.

He had been champion jockey for the previous three seasons before being pipped by Colin Keane last year.

Racing was quick to pledge its support to Smullen, who has not ridden since March 16. Fiona Craig, of owners breeders Moyglare Stud, said on Twitter: ‘Devastated — no other words, but also more than aware that there is no more determined fighter in a tight finish than PJS.’

Paul Smith, an owner and son of Coolmore partner, Derrick, tweeted: ‘My heart and prayers go out to @patjsmullen & @francescrowley (Smullen’s wife) & the whole family for a full & speedy recovery.’