WELL known horse trainer Udyta Clarke is in a critical condition in hospital having suffered a brain bleed on Monday night.
The Australia based 72-year-old was discovered unresponsive at her home in the early hours of Tuesday morning by her assistant.
Fan favourite Clarke is well known for her emotional post-race interviews when her horses win or perform well.
She works out of Cranbourne, Victoria.
Victorian Trainers’ Association president Robbie Griffiths said the organisation was fully behind Clarke and her family during the difficult time.
He said: “Naturally, the association is available to help in any way, shape or form.
“If they need a hand, we’ll be there.
“Everyone will rally around ‘Dyta’ because she’s a great person, a ripper.
“Everyone’s crossing their fingers and toes and saying their prayers, hoping like hell she pulls through.”
Clarke won the 2017/18 Victorian Racing Media Association Personality of the Year award.
And recently retired Rich Charm is widely considered her most successful horse – winning around £500,000 in total prize money during its career.
Having stormed to victory in the Group 2 TAB Multiplier Stakes at Flemington’s Victoria Derby in November 2017, the horse provoked Clarke’s most famous reaction.
Dressed humbly in stable gear, Clarke broke down in tears and could barely speak after jockey Patrick Moloney rode him home.
She said: “I’m sorry… I can’t speak.
“You’ve got no idea what I’ve been through this week.
“My stomach’s churning, you’ve got no idea the pressure on me today, I nearly put him on the truck and took him home before.
“I’ve looked after him like he’s my child.”
Clarke is said to have slept in the barn with her horses in the past when they have been sick or injured.
And speaking of her love for the animals in 2017, she said: “They keep me going and they keep me focused.
“I’ve got no family. What on earth would I do? How would I be without them?”
