'A true miracle' - how Martin Harley defied the medics after 'horrific' fall

Martin Harley has been released from hospital in Australia after he sustained multiple fractures in a fall at Doomben, where his mount clipped the heels of a rival runner in a 6f maiden.

The Classic-winning rider injured his upper back, lower back, shoulder blade and ribs when his mount Deferential clipped the heels of Got The Vibe and went down in the early stages of the contest on Wednesday.

After receiving treatment on the track, the 33-year-old was taken to the Royal Brisbane And Women’s Hospital, where x-rays and scans revealed the extent of his injuries.

Harley moved to Queensland only in November as part of a three-year sponsorship deal from the Gold Coast Jockey Club and had made a bright start.

Speaking from Brisbane, Harley said on Monday morning: "It's a shame to have such a big accident after already riding 17 winners here and having four great shots for the Magic Millions, but health comes before horses and I’m glad I’m myself and in one piece."

Explaining the extent of the injury and his recovery, his partner Brittney Haines said on Sunday: “It was a horrific and freak accident. Martin suffered brain bleeds and multiple fractures, including C0, C1 and C3 in his upper back, as well as to his lower back, shoulder blade and ribs.”

Harley was fitted with a halo brace on Friday and was allowed home on Saturday.

Brittney added: “He was climbing stairs unsupported this morning. His cognitive, strength and sensory functions were on a small scale after the fall but have improved leaps and bounds over the last 72 hours. A true miracle.”

Harley may well be facing a few months on the sidelines but is already defying the medics.

Brittney said: “The doctors and physios discharged us on Saturday – a mere three days from the accident. They can’t believe the determination and strength of this man. He'll probably have two to three months in a halo brace and then have physio.”

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