Top American jockey Mike Smith has paid a fond tribute to a fellow rider who has died at the age of 22.
Smith called Avery Whisman his 'little brother' in the post on social media, after news of the young sportsman's death was made public. Triple Crown champion Smith was his mentor and suggested Whisman should start his career at Turf Paradise racetrack.
He made his professional debut there in 2018 and rode 90 winners during his career in the saddle. Sharing a picture of the pair of them together, Smith tweeted: "R.I.P my little brother you will Always be so Loved."
