Apprentice Doyle rues missed Pisa trip after fall rules her out

Star apprentice Hollie Doyle is hoping to be back in action early next week after being forced to miss a weekend racing trip to Italy due to the effects of a morning fall.

Doyle, who has partnered 23 winners during the all-weather season, had been due to participate in Sunday's Ribot Cup, a showcase of young international talent in Pisa, alongside fellow Brit Tom Marquand and Ireland's Killian Leonard.

"I was really looking forward to the trip but things went wrong when I was riding out on Saturday," said Doyle on Monday.

"I had a fall at home, got knocked out and went into a fit. I don't remember anything about it but I had to go into hospital. I'm out now and hoping I'll be out only for a week, but I'm not allowed to take a concussion test until next Monday.

"I'd like to be able to take it then, but if I fail that one I won't be allowed back for another two weeks."

Doyle added: "It's annoying, as after riding all winter now is the most important time to have my name out there. I got off lightly, though, and it could have been worse."

Victory in the Ribot Cup went to French rider Pauline Dominois.