ANDREE Powell could not have asked for better birthday wishes as on Saturday, October 15, 2022, the reinswoman celebrated her special day by returning to competitive race riding after a three-year break due to injuries.

Powell celebrated her 32nd birthday aboard the Donovan Plummer-conditioned Tiger Bella in the fourth race. Tiger Bella finished fifth in the race behind ZD Eye over five furlongs (1,000m) straight.

“The race, I can tell you, was very sweet; it was good to get back to that feeling. A lot more to come. This is just the start of wonders to come. What makes today [Saturday, October 15] special is that it’s my birthday — and where better to celebrate it than here at Caymanas Park,” Powell told The Supreme Racing Guide.

In 2018, Powell fell from her mount during the exercise period, sustaining she sustained injuries to her left eye that caused her to take an immediate break from the sport. Prolonged medical interventions then followed.

“I had a really bad fall one early morning which, as a result, caused some trauma to the left eye, and that was what kept me out of the saddle for this long period. The eye is okay now; I got my clearance and so I am good to go,” she related.

“It is a great feeling because I was actually looking forward to it and so, all along, I have been preparing for my return to the saddle. Now that the day has finally come, I am really happy and grateful to be back.

“It wasn’t difficult for me to get back into the game as once I got clearance from the doctor, everything just flowed,” Powell, who had ridden 22 winners from 429 mounts, added.

Powell said now that she has returned, it will be hard work going forward as she wants to reap success.

“I received a warm welcome in the racing circle from everyone and it was very touching. It was an emotional return for me, and everyone was behind me 100 per cent.

“A lot of support and motivation from everyone has encouraged me to continue doing the hard work. It is a great feeling as words can’t explain the feeling of being back. Hopefully, the hard work will pay off soon,” Powell said.