Tony Aarts is a familiar name in the harness racing industry with connections to horses the likes of millionaire and stakes winner turned stallion Camotion. While not actively involved now, he's making headlines after fending off a near-fatal alligator attack.
Aarts was golfing at Magnolia Landing Golf & Country Club in North Fort Myers, Florida on Wednesday and before attempting a ten-foot putt for birdie close to a water hazard, the 75-year-old was attacked by an alligator.
“As I was walking about five to six feet away from the water I heard a splash, and as soon as I heard that splash I knew it was an alligator, and he got me,” Aarts told WINK News.
Grabbed by his right ankle, Aarts was pulled into the water with his putter still in his hand. That grip on his club saved him from the grip of the fierce reptile.
“I remember having a club in my hand, and as soon as he had me in the water up to my waist, I started hitting him over the head,” Aarts said. "He was looking at me with his big eyes, and I kept hitting him...And I’m thinking I’m getting deeper and deeper, and I thought you’re not gonna get me.”
After three strikes to the alligator's eye socket, Aarts was out of the grasp and was able to crawl back onto the green. The alligator was subsequently captured and removed.
Just another example of how
Just another example of how tough and determined horsemen really are! Get well soon Tony!
Tom and Liz Knight.
Knowing Tony as I know him,
Knowing Tony as I know him, that gator had NO shot. Just like Camotion, Tony is as tough as nails !!