Maloney’s reboot off to a flyer in Ipswich

RYAN Maloney hit the ground running on his first day of riding in Queensland when he guided Ancient Aztec home for Toby Edmonds at Ipswich yesterday.

Maloney has made the move from Victoria to Queensland where he will be a key member of the Edmonds team, particularly with Jeff Lloyd set to retire sometime this year.

It was Maloney’s first day back riding following a fourmonth suspension incurred after he tested positive to a banned stimulant in March.

“I didn’t sleep much (Tuesday) night. I was pretty toey,” Maloney said.

The Victorian jockey has been riding work for Edmonds since June and immediately took a shine to his new surroundings.

“I want to build as many contacts as I can, ride as many winners as I can and build up a client base,” he said. “Toby has first pick, but if he doesn’t need me, I’m keen to ride for others and also ride as much as I can so I get to know the tracks.”

Maloney hopes to ride consistently at 54kg. He’s not there yet and will ride at the Gold Coast on Saturday, but he hopes to soon be consistently riding the Saturday metropolitan circuit.

“I’ve been running a lot, trackwork and trials, but the only thing that can peak the fitness is race riding,” he said.

“I’m aiming to ride the (54kg) limit. Especially if Toby needs me, I don’t want to miss out. I missed a lot of opportunities back home being a bit lazy and not riding the limit.

“The aim is to be 54kg by Saturday week. I had a few in Brisbane this Saturday, but couldn’t make the weight, so I’ve taken rides at the Gold Coast.”

During his suspension, Maloney spoke candidly about his battles with depression and how the break gave him the chance to see things clearly.

He also talked about how the fresh start would afford him, his wife and two young children a better lifestyle.

“I was sold in the first week,” he said of his move.