THERE has been talk recently about creating two Championship seasons for flat jockeys. A part of me thinks that this could be a good thing.
Most flat jockeys work in England for six months a year. The rest of the time they are racing abroad in countries such as Dubai, America or in India. So it could make sense for the flat lads to have two seasons.
It wouldn’t really stop the likes of Richard Hughes being Champion Jockey though; he’s that far ahead in the championship.
There is even a suggestion that the same could happen for jump jockeys. Most of these lads are based in England. I’m not sure how I feel about this potential move.
If it increases financial backing into the sport or a greater number of sponsorship deals, then I guess this can only be a positive change. But if not, I don’t see the reason to transform the season as we know it.
Richard Johnson in particular has come out against the move. He’s been second jockey to AP McCoy on 13 occasions, so he doesn’t want the change when he’s in a great position to fight to become Champion jockey.
With the offer of extra prize money, though, perhaps it could persuade jump jockeys to accept the move.
Speaking of prize money, I rode a winner last Thursday for Neil Mulholland at Chepstow. Neil and I go a long way back; I’ve known him since I was 12 years old. He’s enjoyed a lot of success throughout his career, and it felt great to ride a winner for him.
I won the first race of the day, but following that there was no more joy. The day didn’t end well as I was brought down in the last race. It was a messy start and I clicked heels with the horse in front. The horse to my right moved into my horse’s racing line, and I ended up bringing down the horse behind me.
I took a bruising and a black eye, and needed six stiches. I regard it as a lucky escape though; because when I hit the ground I bounced and met the other horse in the air. It connected with my eye socket, but luckily I escaped without a fractured jaw.
To me, the build up to Cheltenham is like the build up to Christmas. It comes and goes. It was all about Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh during the Festival. It’s great for the sport, but there was no space for jockeys like myself. It’s a ‘make up the numbers’ gig at Cheltenham.
The Dubai World Cup starts on Saturday, it’s going to be massive. It’s such a spectacle with fireworks and the like. I’ve never been unfortunately. I had the chance this year, but I couldn’t leave work.
Before all of that, on a personal front it’s my daughter’s first birthday. I’ve got a day off, and intend to spend it with the family. I can’t believe it’s been a year. That’s a spectacle in itself.
Selections:
Friday
Newcastle 2.10 Echo Springs (each way)
Wetherby 5.05 Shantou Village (win)
