James Doyle leaves Sydney on a high
English jockey James Doyle has signed off from his Sydney sojourn in style with a Group Three win at Randwick.
A retained rider for Godolphin, Doyle was sent to Australia late last year by his employer to fill the void left by the absence of its former No.1 Australian rider James McDonald who is serving a ban for a betting offence.
Doyle has been recalled to England where he will be straight back in action at Newmarket on Tuesday.
His last win in Australia for the time being was aboard Raiment in Saturday’s James H B Carr Stakes (1400m) for Godolphin trainer John O’Shea.
“I’ve really enjoyed it. It’s been fantastic,” Doyle said.
“Obviously it’s a huge set-up and great to be a part of the team and something that’s been completely new to me coming out and understanding the Australian way of racing.
“I’ve made no secret of the fact that I found it quite tough, early on, adjusting to it.”
Raiment ($5.50) came from midfield on the turn to score a comprehensive 4-1/2 length win over Invincibella ($6).
Doyle said he was keen to come back later in the year and O’Shea expressed the same sentiments.
“He’s just a great guy to work with and as you’ve seen he’s an exceptional rider,” O’Shea said.
“He’s adapted to the Australian way so very quickly.
“Unfortunately he had a couple a bumps where he fell off and got injured, but he’s been a delight to work with and we’d be honoured to have him back and we’re desperate for him to come back.”