Yesterday, racing ended in Canada for the season.
Snow has a way of stopping things over there.
But not before the most amazing confessional ever heard was announced.
And it came from Woodbine’s champion jockey for the past decade, Eurico da silva, whose on and off the track persona has been exemplary. He also decided to end his career and will trail off into the sunset as a health and lifestyle advisor. And after what you’re about to read, maybe that is a great vocation.
Da Silva, in 2018, set a national record of wins in a season when he booted home 237 winner at Woodbine. He won the Woodbine Title for Champion Rider on six occasions and he is the only jockey in history to ride 200 + winners a season on 6 occasions in Canada.
He was a bona fide super star but depending on where you sit re this, he may be an even big winner in some people’s eyes.
When being interviewed about his storied life in the saddle and being simultaneously applauded for a completely scandal-free career, he lowered his head and quietly said, that he had to make a confession.
“I did have issues in my life,” he began. “And I’m not proud of them.
“I was a sex addict for many, many years. I have fought this all my adult life.
Da silva, who has three children and is into his 2nd marriage admitted his sexual urges had come at a tremendous cost.
“I loved married life and I have always strived to be a civil person, but my addiction has cost me a great deal. Especially money.
“Whenever things weren’t going well for me I just went to a hooker. It was like punishment for myself.
“And every time I went, when it was over, I would say to myself, never go again.
“But it was my weakness and even back then I could see that it was disgusting. And for years I just hated myself.”
Da Silva claims his 2nd marriage, which has given him two tiny Da Silva’s has ended his darkness and his desire for hookers.
“Certainly that has helped me and I have worked very, very hard to overcome my addiction,” said the Brazilian-born 44-year-old.
“Right now, I start a new chapter. I’m going to help other athletes to manage their energy, their stress, and their distractions.”
We wish him well.