Fitzgerald opts to quit
Mick Fitzgerald has announced his retirement from the saddle after the latest in a series of major injuries.
The 38-year-old rider suffered serious neck damage and a problem with his knee ligament after a fall from L'Ami in the John Smith's Grand National in April.
After two ops, he told the Daily Star: "I have had to take the advice of the medical experts. It's the news I didn't want but I have had a great career."
Mick bows out at the top
Mick Fitzgerald admits he was lucky to retire in one piece after calling time on his near 20-year career.
He told Sky Sport News: "It is a lot easier for me now having announced last season was going to be my last, I feel like I have had another chance.
"I had a very good season and I like to think I was riding at top of my game when I did bow out. It'd be OK if could guarantee I'd not fall off!"
Fitz's highlights
Mick Fitzgerald has announced his retirement from race-riding with well over 1,000 winners to his credit.
He told Sky Sports News: "Rough Quest was one of the first of the big horses as I won the Grand National in 1996.
"A dream was realised in 1994 when I won the Cathcart on a horse called Raymylette. Then there is See More Business who won the King George and the Gold Cup for me."
Next on Mick's agenda
Mick Fitzgerald is now considering furthering his career in the media after hanging up his saddle.
He told Sky Sports News: "The media work is something I feel comfortable doing and it's something I enjoy doing. I always want to be involved in racing.
"I have done work for At The Races already and it is something I want to pursue and something I want to become better at."
Henderson hails Fitz
Nicky Henderson has expressed his sadness following stable jockey Mick Fitzgerald's retirement.
The Seven Barrows handler told Sky Sport News: "Sadly the time has come to make the decision to retire.
"His communications and way with people is absolutely second to none. I'm sure he can look forward to a long and fruitful, well not even retirement, as he still has a career ahead of him."
No surprises
News of jockey Mick Fitzgerald's retirement came as no surprise to Steve Smith Eccles, a former stable jockey at the Nicky Henderson yard.
He said: "I thought he was very brave to carry on the time before when he had that neck injury. I was not surprised that he's packed in this time.
"He's a very good talker and a good ambassador. He's been good for racing and hopefully it will repay him."
Osborne wishes Mick well
Jamie Osborne, another former retained jockey at Nicky Henderson's yard, was pleased Mick Fitzgerald had finally decided to call it a day.
He said: "He was a little whipper snapper when I was riding! He was a jockey who was always going to go on.
"He's a great fella, been a great rider and he's got out nearly in one piece. I wish him all the best and I'm glad he's made the right decision."
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