THE prayers of the racing world are with the family of one of Australia’s favorite jockeys, Cyril Small, who is fighting to survive a massive stroke.
Small, 67, best remembered as the rider of the legendary galloper, Vo Rogue, was rushed to Gold Coast University Hospital on Saturday. (PHOTO courtesy of PHIL PURSER).
“His breathing is being assisted by a ventilator but in the last 12 hours the inflamation in his brain has reduced and he is getting stronger and showing signs of improvement,” a statement from the Queensland Jockeys’ Association revealed.
Cyril’s son Braidon, a jockey who has survived a brain tumour, cancelled rides at Hamilton yesterday (Sunday) to rush to his dad’s bedside.
“Braidon and Daniel (sons) rushed from Victoria last night to be at his bedside along with his wife Lynlea, daughter Jessica as well as family friends Jeff Perry (owner of the great Vo Vogue) and his daughter Cymone,” the QJA explained.
“The Small family want to thank the expert care of the paramedics and the doctors and nurses at Gold Coast University hospital but have requested privacy at this time and thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers and will provide updates to the Queensland Jockeys’ Association through Glen Prentice in due course.”
Small will never be forgotten as the jockey who partnered the late Vic Rail-trained Vo Rogue to 26 wins, 11 of those Group 1, dominating WFA classics from 1988 to 1990.
Doctors are hopeful that Cyril has turned the corner but he has a long journey ahead.
