Kaya back in the saddle once again
THE loyal jockey that helped launch the training career of Cairns horseman Peter Rowe will make a return to the North Queensland riding ranks this afternoon.
Veteran Cairns hoop Shohei Kaya has been away from the racetrack since September, but has recently restarted trackwork in an effort to get back in the barriers.
The 41-year-old gets that opportunity with four rides at Cannon Park today.
The lightweight hoop has been back at track work 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 past 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 sustaining 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 invaluable 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 track work, 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.