GROUP one Warrnambool-based jockey Declan Bates looks likely to be on the sidelines for a month or longer after injuring his left kneecap in a pre-race accident at Geelong on Saturday.
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Bates, who rode Begood Toya Mother to win his first group race the Rupert Clarke Stakes at Caulfield in September, was dislodged from the Donna Mott trained Ski Zoom prior to the first race a maiden plate over 1118 metres. The four-year-old mare bucked twice in the mounting yard. Doctors inspected Bates following the incident and he was deemed unfit to fulfill his remaining rides on the seven race program.
More medical check-ups showed Bates had fractured his left kneecap.
The popular Irish born jockey posted on social media on Saturday night that he will be seeing a surgeon on Tuesday and may need surgery but hoped not to be out of the saddle for too long.
Bates had enjoyed a successful spring carnival, apart from winning the Rupert Clarke on Begood Toya Mother. He also won the Regal Roller Stakes on Begood Toya Mother and rode Gamay to victory in the Ethereal Stakes at Caulfield on October.
Stewards informed Mott - the unraced Ski Zoom must be presented in a raceday saddle and trial to the satisfaction of them prior to her racing.
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