Shaquille’s team to make last-minute call on jockey for July Cup
A Mystery Yet to Be Unraveled: Who Will Ride Shaquille?
The anticipation builds as the favored runner, Shaquille, awaits a jockey for the upcoming Pertemps Network July Cup. The decision remains shrouded in uncertainty and is expected to be unveiled mere minutes before declaration time on Thursday morning.
With former champion jockey Oisin Murphy suspended, after an impressive victory with Shaquille at the Commonwealth Cup during Royal Ascot, all eyes turned to James Doyle as the potential replacement. Having ridden him to win his previous two races, Doyle seemed like a natural choice. However, fate intervened as he was required by his principal employer Godolphin at Ascot.
This unforeseen circumstance leaves trainer Julie Camacho and her husband Steve Brown flooded with offers from eager riders who wish to take up the reins of this promising steed. “There has been lots of interest from people interested in riding him,” revealed Brown.
Intriguingly enough, co-owner and breeder Martin Hughes appears rather relaxed about waiting until Thursday morning to finalize their selection. He draws upon past experiences when Oisin Murphy wasn’t confirmed until 9:50 AM on race day at Royal Ascot – a testament that patience can lead them down victorious paths once again.
One potential candidate whose availability looms tantalizingly close is Ryan Moore. His participation in another race aboard Little Big Bear hangs precariously at just 50-50 according to Aidan O’Brien’s latest statement on Monday.
“Martin used to have horses based in the south in the past and has dealt with many jockeys,” said Brown regarding Hughes’ cautious approach. “We’ll have a conversation on Thursday morning after we have seen who has been declared.”
Amidst this jigsaw puzzle of circumstances, one fact remains clear – James Doyle’s unavailability due to his commitment with Godolphin at Ascot. Brown acknowledges the missed opportunity, confessing, “It is a shame for us because it made things incredibly easy.”
The ever-changing roster of riders for Shaquille has been a topic of discussion since he first stepped onto the track. With seven races under his belt and four different jockeys guiding him to victory, Camacho and Brown commendably navigate these unexpected transitions.
Intrinsically linked to their previous success at Ascot, Shaquille’s astonishing triumph despite jumping out of the stalls cost them precious seconds but resulted in their maiden Group One title. The goodwill pouring in from supporters astounds Camacho and Brown as they revel in the warmth shown towards their small-to-medium-sized training operation.
“Jules was saying yesterday when we were coming down to Newmarket how many good wishes we’ve had since Royal Ascot,” shared Brown. “People have been so kind, and that’s such a pleasant surprise.”
A Different Kind of Pressure Awaits
The upcoming race presents an entirely new set of challenges for Camacho and her team. As favorites for the Pertemps Network July Cup, they find themselves thrust into the spotlight unlike before when Little Big Bear flew somewhat under the radar at Ascot.
Brown admits that Saturday will bring about unique pressures compared to previous events but welcomes this unparalleled position with open arms: “To have a favorite for a Group One race is truly delightful – what an incredible position to be in!”