Kaya is back in saddle

THE loyal jockey that helped launch the training career of Cairns horseman Peter Rowe makes a return to the FNQ riding ranks this afternoon.

Local hoop Shohei Kaya has been away from the racetrack since September last year.

He has recently restarted trackwork in the mornings and will have four race rides today across the six-event TAB program.

The 41-year-old decided to have some time away from the horses as well as holidaying in Japan with his family recently.

The lightweight hoop has been back at trackwork for a fortnight and will have no issues with his weight today, riding at 54kg.

Cannon Park trainer Rowe, who has trained two winners from his last eight starters, credits Kaya for helping him get a start as a trainer, riding all his work when he first took out his licence.

With Krysten Swaffer suffering a broken collarbone, older brother Braydn Swaffer on the sidelines due to a Queensland Racing Integrity Commission ban and apprentice Scott Gittos riding more often for Rodney Miller of late,

Kaya has been valuable for the Rowe stable.

“I have not ridden for almost half a year and I will need to get a bit fitter going forward,” Kaya said.

“I just had enough of riding late last year, even trackwork, and I just did not want to do it anymore.

“Peter and Trevor Rowe contacted me to come back so I did.

“My weight has never been an issue but I have only taken a few rides back this week because of my fitness.”

Kaya believes Badboy Charlie is the best winning chance of his rides today, booked on three for Rowe, as well as Roy Chillemi’s Purple Grey.

The four-year-old gelding, Badboy Charlie, will have his second start for Rowe in the $15,000 Maiden Handicap (1250m) after transferring from Ralph Baker at Gordonvale.

Badboy Charlie made some ground over the concluding stages at Cannon Park last month, beaten four lengths by Loud ‘N’ Loose.

“It is not a very strong field and the horse has been around the mark in his last few,” Kaya said of Badboy Charlie’s chances.

“It has not been really top form but I do not think this race is impossible for him.”