John O’Shea shows support for banned jockey James McDonald

O'Shea
John O’Shea has given the nod of approval to James McDonald when he returns from an 18-month suspension. Photo: Bradley Photos

JOHN O’Shea has given banned jockey James McDonald the nod of approval once he returns to the riding ranks.

The Kiwi jockey was banned for 18 months after he placed a $1000 bet on a horse he was riding (Astern), but O’Shea confirmed this week that McDonald would still be his No. 1 jockey when he returns to training.

“My goal is to have a stable strong enough that warrants James and keeps him busy on his return,” O’Shea said.

“One of the things that inspired me the most was to make sure I could look after him the best I could and provide him with a significant amount of horses to keep him busy.”

O’Shea took some time off after departing Godolphin earlier this year, which he spent with his family.

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“I’ve got a young daughter. I’ve never seen her play sport,” O’Shea said.

“Since I’ve been out, I’ve been to all her soccer matches and for me you can’t get that back.

“(My) three other boys, to go to all of their games every Saturday since I’ve been out is something I cherish.”

O’Shea was given the opportunity to fill 40 boxes at Randwick which was too good to pass up, despite wanting more time off.

“John O’Shea is a proven group one trainer and we believe he will be a strong addition to the training ranks at Royal Randwick,” ATC executive general manager of racing James Heddo said.

“We are also talking with Anthony and Edward Cummings to see if it is practical for them to move into Leilani Lodge or remain in their current stables.”

Our take

We’re expecting James McDonald to have learned from his mistakes and the 18-month ban might have done him some good.

It appeared to many that McDonald was getting a touch too full of himself and with the bright lights of Sydney shining bright, temptation proved too much for the young hoop.

McDonald is a world class jockey and we fully expect him to come back in fine form. Getting his weight stable will be a big test, but the backing from John O’Shea will be a massive boost.

The critics will say that McDonald doesn’t deserve to be handed a plum riding position with John O’Shea, but many of Australia’s top riders have been given second chances and McDonald should be counted as no different.

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