Welsh rider Probert takes title

WELSH jockey David Probert is set to become All-Weather Champion Jockey today at Newcastle Racecourse’s AllWeather Finals Day.

With a commanding lead total of 82 winners, Probert has charged to victory on the All-Weather tracks ahead of closest rivals Hollie Doyle and Daniel Muscutt.

Last year, the Bargoed-born jockey had the best year of his career so far with 170 winners, and his domination of the All-Weather Jockeys’ Championship with a winning margin of 20 lays an impressive foundation for his upcoming campaign.

The Jockeys’ Championship begins on QIPCO 2000 Guineas day at Newmarket Racecourse on Saturday, April 30, and Probert is fourth favourite to win his first ever Flat Jockeys’ crown.

Probert, 33, said of his All-Weather title win: “It’s great, it’s rolled on from a very good season last season, but I’ve been very lucky to ride for plenty of different trainers. It means a lot to win and it’s a big achievement, hopefully it bounces into a good grass season.

“It always helps to stay around in the winter and keep my face in the game. I’ve built up good connections who have helped me and given me plenty of opportunities, so I owe a huge thank you to all the owners and trainers who have supported me.”

After jointly winning the Apprentice Jockeys’ Championship in 2008 with William Buick, who is likely to be one of his main rivals this season, Probert has continued to excel and have consistent success, culminating in exceeding 150 winners in a year for the first time.

Speaking on the season ahead, the All-Weather champion continued: “We’ve got lots of good horses this season at Andrew’s [Balding], some really nice three-year-olds like Sandrine who is going in the QIPCO 1000 Guineas. Hopefully, there are plenty of chances to get that Group 1.”