Jockey Dylan Davis, who briefly contemplated retiring after a near-fatal accident at Aqueduct Racecourse in mid-November, is now nearing a return to racing. Currently at about 90% fitness, Davis hopes to receive medical approval to resume galloping horses during his upcoming orthopedic appointment on February 19th. He has been gradually recovering from severe injuries, including nine broken ribs, a collapsed left lung, a fractured right clavicle, and a hairline fracture in his right upper arm.
Reflecting on the ordeal, 31-year-old Davis said his passion for racing outweighs the fear and uncertainty that come with the sport. During his 10-day hospital stay, which began in intensive care, Davis—son of jockey Robbie Davies—faced immense physical pain and emotional stress. The incident occurred during the seventh race at Aqueduct on November 14 when his horse, Tarpaulin, collided with Heavyweight Champion ahead of him, resulting in the latter horse breaking its front left leg. While Tarpaulin escaped with minor injuries, Davis was less fortunate.
He described feeling immobilized and trapped, doubting whether he would ever ride again, calling the accident a near-death experience with potentially life-altering consequences. Now living in New York with his wife Sarah and their two children, Michael and Demi, Davis committed fully to rehabilitation after being discharged from Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. He trains almost daily, incorporating weightlifting and running to regain strength.
Any hesitation about returning to racing has turned into strong resolve, supported by veteran agent Michael Migliore, who has helped rebuild Davis’s confidence and connected him with top racing stables. Prior to his injury, Davis had six Group 1 wins in 2021, including a victory on Mutamakina at the EP Taylor Stakes at Woodbine, and was riding for acclaimed trainers like Todd Pletcher, Mark Casse, and Chad Brown.
“I truly love racing — it’s all I know. Horses bring me joy, and winning races keeps me in great shape. I really miss competing,” Davis shared. Migliore, for his part, remains supportive regardless of Davis’s decision. Since beginning his career in 2012, Davis has ridden 12,313 races, winning 1,623 and earning over $104 million in prize money. He feels confident he can rebuild his momentum, noting that many connections with whom he’s had success have reached out with encouragement.
Davis emphasized he won’t return to racing until fully healed. “I want owners and fellow jockeys to know that when I am back on their horses, I will be 100% for them. They invest heavily in their horses and care, and I want to do my part,” he said. Having dedicated significant time to rehabilitation, Davis expects to be ready to ride again after a week or so of galloping. “We’ll reconnect with our main clients, aim for some immediate wins, and build from there,” he added.
Migliore expressed excitement about Davis’s comeback. “Do I believe he’ll return stronger than ever? Absolutely. The sky’s the limit. I’m confident he’ll come back even better,” he said. The agent has already begun discussions with a Florida trainer to possibly compete at Gulfstream Park and avoid New York’s harsh winter.
This article originally appeared in the Paulick Report on February 2, 2026.
Fan Take: Dylan Davis’s return is incredibly uplifting news for horse racing enthusiasts, highlighting the sport’s grit and resilience. His comeback could inspire fellow jockeys and elevate competition, reminding fans why they love the thrill and unpredictability of racing.
