Tasmyn sidelined by race fall but staying positive

Talented Victorian concession reinswoman Tasmyn Potter will be sidelined for at least six weeks after sustaining injuries in a race fall at this week’s Shepparton harness racing meeting (Feb 18).

The 22-year-old was taken to the Goulburn Valley Health hospital after race three when the second starter she was driving, Aussie Jay Mac, galloped then fell heavily while racing at the rear of the field.

“I had some encouragement from mum to go to hospital. I had CT scans and x-rays, and they revealed an L1 (spinal) fracture involving two columns,” Potter said.

“That means I have to have six weeks off, then see a neurosurgeon at the St Vincent’s trauma spine clinic. Hopefully then I’ll be given the all-clear to start driving again.

“We got straight in at the ED which was great – but by the end of the four hours I was getting quite impatient waiting for results!”

Potter has been enjoying a terrific start to the season, following on from a highly successful 2024. After beginning her career in 2023, she now has 68 winners to her name, including 42 last season.

“It was my first accident at the races – I’ve had a few at home but definitely not to this extent!” Potter said.

“When the horse fell, he rolled, which flicked the cart up, so I was flicked up too, sort of, and sideways.  I fell quite heavily on my side, which is probably why I’ve fractured my lower back.

“I couldn’t have been happier with how the season started.  I was having a great run and getting some more opportunities and the chance to drive some nicer horses. It’s really not a good time to be sidelined with the opportunities I’m getting but I guess there’s never really the right time to be injured.”

Although she is in career best form, prior to Tuesday night’s fall Potter was suspended for a drive at Melton on Saturday night.

“I was bummed that I got 10 days on Saturday but that’s the least of my worries now,” she said.

“I can walk, but I get quite uncomfortable if I’m on my feet for too long, or in one position for too long. I’m sure six weeks is going to be very frustrating for me not being able to do much and watching horses that I usually drive go around!

“But I guess if I don’t rest up and I don’t get the all-clear after six weeks, I’ll be very disappointed, so I’ll be doing my best to keep as quiet as I can!”

by Terry Gange, for Harnesslink