Leading Jockey in Australia Chris Symons will be off the track for some time suffering a strange injury after being bitten by a crocodile named Crikey.
The 36 year old Aussie is one of the hardest working riders in the sport both on and off the track, sharing his time between riding as one of Victoria's prolific jockeys, helping media outlets such as Channel 7 with interviews and pundit work, whilst also running The Funky Farm near Mornington with his wife.
He harbours around 150 animals on his farm including Crikey the crocodile who has caused him a very nasty injury. He was bitten on Sunday whilst moving the animal into a public display area ahead the arrival of patrons throughout the day.
(Credit Racing Post) Symons said: “I was told they bite, but now I know how hard.
“Because of the bacteria they carry I had minor surgery. They are amazing animals that should always be treated with the upmost respect, human error on my behalf was the cause.
“Crikey is the most intelligent creature and my lesson has been learned.”
The rider underwent surgery at Frankston Hospital on Sunday night and luckily for his career as a jockey has not suffered any tendon damage in the incident.
Following the procedure he still managed to attend National Jockeys Trust fundraising cricket game at Williamstown on Monday. It is unknown how long he will be off the track for and Symons knows how lucky he is not to see his injuries be career threatening.