Childs writes own story

JORDAN Childs, the son of former leading New Zealand-born jockey Greg, came out from behind his father’s shadow yesterday to win the A$1.5 million Blue Diamond Stakes on brilliant two-year-old Written By, giving the rider his first Group One success.

Some 26 years ago, Greg Childs scored on top two-year-old of the time Riva Diva in the Blue Diamond.

Jordan Childs was understandably moved by the staggering win of the youngster, which saw Written By sit three wide from his terrible gate of barrier 15, but still manage to surge away and win as he liked.

‘‘It’s just great to be a part of such a great young horse, who has amazing talent. And yes to win my first Group One is a special moment. He is a horse of great ability,’’ Childs said.

The two-year-old landed a huge plunge. Bookmakers gave as much as $14 before the youngster firmed into $5.50.

Childs, 21, has ridden over 300 winners and began his career in 2012 when apprenticed to another champion jockey Paddy Payne

His twin sister Tayla recently entered the Victorian Apprentices Academy to begin her riding career. She is already a distinguished show rider.

Childs said that many people had done ‘‘great work’’ on Written By to get him in the Blue Diamond in such fantastic order, and he is now in pivotal position come the rich Golden Slipper in one month’s time.

‘‘The work that gone into the horse has been amazing. But I must thank everyone connected with the horse for sticking with me,’’ he said.

The victory puts the Grahame Begg-trained Written Tycoon colt in the select company of two-yearolds who have won the Blue Diamond Prelude-Blue Diamond double.

Written By led at the top of the straight yesterday and beat Enbihaar by three lengths, with Oohood in third.

‘‘He’s very very good. His work on Monday morning had to be seen to be believed.

‘‘The Slipper yes, we will watch how things work out, and we will see how he pulls up. But the race is a month away and that gives us plenty of time,’’ Begg said.

‘‘This horse just doesn’t know how to lay down,’’ he enthused of Written By, whose barrier manners were once a problem, before being rectified.

‘‘Everyone thought the wide gate was a knock on him, but he’s had the best couple of weeks.’’