James Doyle off the mark in Australia
INTERNATIONAL rider James Doyle scored his first win in Australia on Saturday when Trekking won the Schweppes Plate at Rosehill.
Doyle has replaced James McDonald as Godolphin’s top rider in Australia and after a handful of attempts, the rising star notched his first win on Australian soil aboard the John O’Shea-trained Trekking.
“I’ve come over a few times without scoring in some big races,” Doyle said.
“I know it’s only a maiden but it’s nice to get the win.
“It’s so different to what I’m used to back home so I’m really looking forward to knuckling down and I really want to succeed out here so let’s hope I can.”
Trekking was backed into the $1.90 favourite at CrownBet.com.au and after a few nervous moments at the top of the straight, Doyle hooked the son of Street Cry out and the talented colt did the rest.
“He had to bullock his way out,” O’Shea said.
“I think it was both good for horse and rider to get on the board.
“A lot of credit must go to our team at home – he’s been a bit of a lad – but the team have put a lot of work into him and it’s a great effort to get him here today.”
O’Shea will now give the colt a break before targetting it towards the Sydney autumn.
“He can have a short break now and come back for the autumn,” he added.
Goodfella was sent out way over the odds at $16 and it ran on nicely into second. Stablemate to the winner, Gaulois, made late headway into third.