George Buckell's journey from the lowest point in his life to a determined comeback in the world of horse riding is truly remarkable. Just 16 months ago, he found himself at rock bottom, both physically and emotionally. But now, with a newfound mindset and a burning desire to succeed, he is on the path to redemption.

A Jockey's Triumph over Adversity

Rock Bottom and the Dark Days

Two years ago, George Buckell was spending winters in Dubai and summers in the UK, riding for renowned trainers and having a bright future. But then, everything came crashing down. He stopped race-riding and his weight soared. It was a stark contrast to his previous success. "I had reached rock bottom," he recalls. "No longer race-riding and with my weight out of control, it was a difficult time."This emotional fall was so severe that he even tried to take his own life. It was a turning point that changed his life forever. "When you fall so hard emotionally that you reach that point, it's a struggle to come back," he says.

The Road to Recovery

Now, at the brink of turning 30, Buckell is on a remarkable comeback. He started by working with Shadwell, breaking in yearlings, and then at John Gosden's. But it was when he got involved in horse transport that things took a turn. "I was at Royal Ascot transporting horses and that's when Mick Appleby encouraged me to give it another go," he says.With the help of George Wilson, who provided diet and nutrition advice, Buckell was able to shed the excess weight. In just over two months, he went from 11 stone to 8st13lb. "It wasn't easy, but I knew I had to do it," he says.

Overcoming Adversities and Finding a New Perspective

Buckell's journey has not been without its challenges. He had to overcome his self-obsessed attitude and addiction problems. A good friend, Sam Warren, from the charity RACE, helped him get his life back on track. "It got pretty low at one point," he says. "But with the support of my family and friends, I was able to turn things around."He also had to deal with the pressures of the demanding racing career. But with a strong support network and the help of fellow jockeys like Oisin Murphy and James Doyle, he has been able to stay on track.

The Present and the Future

Today, Buckell is in a much better place. He is fitter than ever and has a new perspective on life. He works hard every day, riding out for George Boughey in the mornings and then going to the IJF gym. "Racing is like a drug for me," he says. "Once it's under your skin, it stays there. And the buzz of riding winners is something you can't get anywhere else."So, when will he ride that first winner? "You might see a few tears," he says with a wry smile. "It will be a big deal for me."For now, he is just living in horse racing and loving every moment. His recovery is his number one priority, and he is determined to make the most of it.• Visit the Injured Jockeys’ Fund websiteBoy wonder Billy Loughnane heads to Australia for the winterSeven Days in Racing: Bob Baffert at Churchill Downs, Mystik Dan plans, Santa Anita purse cuts and more …Leading UK jockey David Egan returns for Gulfstream championship meetView the latest TRC Global Rankings for horses / jockeys / trainers / sires