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Champion SA trainer taken ill

Cape Town - The racing community has been in collective shock at the news that one of the longest standing and popular training personalities, Mike Bass, has taken ill.

According to the Sporting Post's Facebook page, while it is understandably a very difficult time for all involved, due to the overwhelming support and concern from across the country, the family has furnished the following news.

Bass started feeling unwell during the Cape Awards on Friday, August 7. Feeling progressively worse during the course of the weekend, he sought medical advice on Monday and was diagnosed with flu.

In the early hours of Wednesday morning, he had deteriorated sufficiently for an ambulance to be called and he was rushed to hospital. An examination revealed that he had developed severe pneumonia and he was admitted to intensive care.

During the course of Wednesday, Bass’ condition worsened and he went into septic shock. He has been placed in an induced coma and the medical team are doing everything they can. At this stage, the prognosis remains serious and the family and medical team are taking things hour by hour.

The family have asked to express their thanks for the care and concern they have received. 

Mike Bass' son Mark said “We are in such awe and overwhelmed by the support from friends, family and the entire racing industry, who have really come together in trying to keep  us so positive through this difficult time. He is so loved. We would just like to thank everyone for their amazing support.”

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