3 minute read

Jockey Jimmy McCarthy announced his retirement from the saddle after partnering Ogee to victory at Southwell.

McCarthy steered the Renee Robeson-trained gelding to a length-and-a-half success in the Denis Wright Memorial Handicap Hurdle and promptly called time on a career which spanned more than 25 years.

"It's been on my mind for a while and I wanted to do it on that horse and for Mrs Robeson, as she's been very good to me over the years," he told At The Races.

"I wanted to go out on him, I was determined to win one more on him as he gave me the only Grade One (win) I've ever had.

"I've been around that long that most of them (trainers) that I used to ride for aren't here any more!

"I've been very lucky to have ridden for everyone from champion trainers to struggling man. I've ridden a lot of nice horses, I've had a lot of luck, no major breaks or time off or stuff like that. I'm getting out in one piece and count myself very lucky.

"I've had plenty of good people behind me for a very long time, none more so than Mrs Robeson herself."

McCarthy already works with trainer Jamie Osborne and is now planning to devote more time to his work at the Upper Lambourn yard.

He said: "I'm there every day, it's taking up more and more of my time. I've coached a few of the kids, Tom Garner, Gavin Sheehan, Eddie Linehan and that takes time - there's plenty to do."