Jockey Jason Maskiell out until later this month as he follows Racing Victoria’s concussion rules

A short bout of amnesia after a fall at Geelong will keep jockey Jason Maskiell out of the saddle for some time yet in accordance with Racing Victoria’s concussion rules.

Jason Maskiell will miss a minimum of two weeks after a fall at Geelong. Picture: Scott Barbour

Jockey Jason Maskiell will spend at least another 10 days on the sidelines after his fall at Geelong last Thursday.

Maskiell crashed to the turf when his mount Northeast Express stumbled over the fallen Slickback Teddy in a race over 2455m last week.

Maskiell was taken to hospital for observation. He remained in hospital overnight as he was monitored for signs of concussion.

Now Maskiell won’t be able to ride a horse until at least January 21 in line with Racing Victoria’s concussion protocols, which automatically ban jockeys from riding for a minimum 14 days after once concussion is diagnosed.

Riders must also pass a concussion test before they are cleared to resume riding.

“They ruled me out until the 21st of this month and they will have a look at me again,” Maskiell said.

“I think it was because I had amnesia or something like that for about 45 minutes after the race. I just kept asking where I was.”

Maskiell hopes to be back in action later this month. Picture: Scott Barbour

The jockey, who recently rode his 500th winner, said he was recovering from general soreness after his fall.

He’s currently recuperating in a quiet house as his wife and newborn son have travelled back to Tasmania to visit family for a few days.

“I’m still pretty sore. Just stiff and sore all over rather than in one specific area,” he said.

“I’ll talk to (Racing Victoria’s chief medical officer) Gary Zimmerman again and I’ll have to pass a concussion test before I’m allowed back to ride.”

Maskiell said his latest fall was his third unlucky accident over the years.

“My last three falls have been from someone falling in front of me,” Maskiell said.

“It’s like riding a bike without a front wheel.”

He said he was unsure whether he would be heading back to his native Tasmania to ride at next month’s Hobart and Launceston Cup carnivals.

He said he would head south if the right ride became available.

Originally published as Jockey Jason Maskiell out until later this month as he follows Racing Victoria’s concussion rules