Toomey aiming for return to action Brian Toomey is optimistic about his chances of returning to the saddle after recovering from serious head injuries sustained in a fall at Perth in July 2013. The 25-year-old, from Limerick, was hurt when the Lisa Harrison-trained Solway Dandy fell heavily three out in the Book Now For 2014 Perth Festival Conditional Jockeys' Handicap Hurdle more than 18 months ago. Toomey has been back riding out for a number of trainers for the past six months and two neurosurgeons have recently told him there is no reason he cannot reapply for his riding licence. The jockey has sent off his application to the British Horseracing Authority, but he will have to pass stringent medical checks as part of the process. "They (the neurosurgeons) have said that they cannot stand in the way," Toomey told The Yorkshire Post. "As a result of this, and the reassurance that it has provided, I have submitted an application to the BHA to renew my licence and posted it off - first class. I never thought I would be in this position. "I want to come back, but I know I am going to have to prove myself more than I have ever done. "But I do love to prove people wrong. If I put my mind to something, I don't give up. I think that's one reason why I am even in this position. People go through tough times in all walks of life, it's the same with horse racing. "Eighteen months ago, you would have said it would take a miracle to get this far - one of the intensive care nurses in Dundee said she had seen two miracles in 22 years and I was one of them. "It's frustrating riding and schooling horses that I cannot ride in races. "I feel I am ready. I hope I can inspire anyone with a brain injury not to give up, and to give people a small bit of hope. I texted my agent Dave Roberts to see if trainers would support me and he sent back one word. Loads."
