3 minute read

Leading reinswoman Ellen Tormey is set to make her race-day return this week after suffering a dislocated and fractured hip at the Bendigo trials on August 12.

The 34-year-old and fellow driver, Tony Xiriha were both injured in the accident causing the pair to spend time in hospital.

"I am pretty good," Ellen Tormey said. "They said it would take six to nine months until I feel completely fine, but in the cart - I feel good."

Tormey has been confined to the sidelines for a much different change of pace.

"The slower lifestyle was nice for a little bit, but a little frustrating not being able to help in the early days," she said.

"I knew straight away that it wasn't going to be a quick journey back, I felt like I would think about it and miss it too much, but then I might drive myself crazy."

The winner of over 1130 races had little trepidation about getting back into the sulky.

"I was pretty good straight away and it felt a little bit funny at the start, because I still had some swelling. I haven't really been scared," she said.

"I wouldn't be coming back if I wasn't mentally alright or physically alright."

Tormey has found inner courage and strength in recovering and getting back to the races.

"I am proud of myself in the way I handled it," Tormey said. "I am not one to usually sit around and until you're in that position you're not sure how you are going to handle it."

Tormey has been supported by the team and trainers around her.

"I have had Jack (Laugher) and Liam (Older) looking after everything and they have been doing a good job and there isn't anyone telling me to get back or rushing me," Tormey said.

"I have got a few drives over Friday, Saturday and Sunday. They are all people I have driven for before and I appreciate them giving me a chance straight away like Julie Douglas, Greg Norman and Mark Watson."

The 34-year-old will make her return on Friday for Swan Hill Cup night and will partner the Julie Douglas-prepared Ideal Escape in the $25,000 pacing feature.