Forest Boyce’s Triumphant Return to Racing
Maryland jockey Forest Boyce has made a remarkable comeback to the winner’s circle after a frightening incident at Laurel Park last month. On April 13, Boyce’s mount, Z Bogdan, reared up and flipped over, landing on top of her in the post parade. Miraculously, Boyce escaped serious injury and was back in the saddle just 12 days later.
The Incident and Recovery
The accident occurred during the first race at Laurel Park, where Z Bogdan, a first-time starter, suddenly reared up and flipped over, pinning Boyce underneath. Despite the severity of the incident, Boyce was conscious and able to move her extremities while prone on the track. She was initially placed in an ambulance and later airlifted to the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center at the University of Maryland for further treatment.
According to Dr. Christian Glaser, the on-track physician, Boyce sustained a lower-body injury but was fortunate to avoid any serious damage. Her agent, Jay Burtis, confirmed that Boyce was in a lot of pain but had no broken bones, and her recovery would be a day-to-day process.
Back to Winning Ways
Just 12 days after the incident, Boyce returned to the winner’s circle, guiding Tuck Check to a victory on April 26. This impressive comeback was followed by another winning performance, where she piloted favored Belle of Rights to a last-to-first victory in a $53,000 second-level allowance for fillies and mares at one mile on turf. Boyce’s expertise and partnership with Hall of Fame trainer Shug McGaughey were evident in the win, showcasing their potent combination.
A Potent Partnership
Boyce and McGaughey’s collaboration has yielded impressive results, with 56 wins from 211 starts, a 26% win rate, and a positive return on investment for bettors. Their partnership is built on trust, expertise, and a deep understanding of the horses. Boyce’s ability to stay out of trouble and bring out the best in the horses has been key to their success.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Forest Boyce is a seasoned jockey with an impressive career spanning over a decade. Some of her notable achievements include ¹ ²:
– *1,000 Career Wins*: Boyce reached this milestone recently, marking a significant achievement in her career.
– *Summer and Fall Riding Titles*: She won the summer and fall riding titles at Laurel Park in 2010.
– *Eclipse Award Nomination*: Boyce was runner-up for the Eclipse Award as champion apprentice in 2010.
– *Graded Wins*: She has multiple graded wins, including the Virginia Oaks (G3) and the Baltimore-Washington International Turf Cup (G3).
Boyce’s dedication, resilience, and passion for racing have made her a respected figure in the Maryland circuit. Her ability to bounce back from adversity and continue delivering outstanding performances is a testament to her skill and determination.
