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Louis celebrates overdue return with a double

3 minute read

Apprentice Brandon Louis spent almost eight months in the racing wilderness waiting for the approval of a visa to continue riding in the state, but the wait was worthwhile according to the Mauritius-born rider.

ARTUSO.
ARTUSO. Picture: Tas Racing.

Brandon Louis celebrated his return to race riding at his second meeting back with a double in Devonport last Sunday and they were both superb rides.

He guided Up Wind to victory in a benchmark 78 handicap over 1650m and he capped the day with a textbook ride to win aboard Artuso in a BM66 handicap and both winners were trained at Spreyton by Leanne Gaffney.

"It was so good to be back riding winners and I am grateful for the rides from Mrs. Gaffney," Louis said.

"Both horses ran well and hopefully we can combine to win again."

Louis, 25, arrived in the state early last year and joined the Cameron Thompson stable but when that partnership ended there was an issue with an extension to his visa as he made plans to relocate to another stable.

Louis had to endure an eight-month wait but he is now indentured to Imogen Miller at Seven Mile Beach, and he is enjoying the change of scenery and different training regime.

"Imogen has a small team in work, but the training is different to what I was used to elsewhere, but that is a good thing."

The advantage of being aligned with the Miller stable is that Louis is given the opportunity to learn from 14-times Tasmania premiership jockey Brendon McCoull who is Miller's life partner and rides work at the beach.

"It is so good having Brendon (McCoull) to watch over me and give me advice."

Louis had 18 months remaining of his apprenticeship but lost so much time waiting for his visa to be renewed, he has had his apprenticeship extended to two years.

Louis has at least five rides in Devonport on Sunday of which the Stuart Gandy-trained GeeGgee Trendsetter looms as his best winning chance in the opening event, the Ladbrokes Benchmark 78 Handicap over 1150 metres.


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