My first spin in The Derby

It was great to have a first spin in the Derby last Saturday on Khalifa Sat for Ahmad Al Shaikh. He ran a huge race to finish second and I am just really happy for connections that I was able to repay the opportunity that they gave me. It was a great day all round and for that to happen in my first Derby I am delighted.

In the build up to the Derby I was pleased to bring up my 500th career win at Chepstow as well as riding a winner for Godolphin which is always nice. Yesterday Yazaman ran a huge race in the Group 2 July Stakes at Newmarket to finish second. It is always disappointing when you finish second but I was really pleased with him and he looks one to keep an eye on for the rest of the season.

Today I head to Bath where I have a busy evening with eight rides and some good chances. Tomorrow I am at Ascot where I look to have a good book of rides and the one I am most looking forward to is Skardu in the Summer Mile. It is actually a race I rode for Godolphin on Toormore when I was a 3lb claimer which was an amazing experience a couple of years ago so it’s a race that is always on my radar and that I want to win! Skardu is a nice type who I am looking forward to getting back on. He shaped ok in his seasonal reappearance and he has every right to come on for the run so hopefully he can run a big race.

I am pleased to have better weather back this weekend and it is great to have owners back on the track which I hope they are enjoying !