Chris Waller declared ageless Jim Cassidy still deserves a place among the world’s elite jockeys after two contrasting rides produced winning results for the premier Sydney trainer.
“I’ve never looked at Jim and said he was past it,” Waller said after Republic Lad was victorious on the back of Cassidy’s deft navigation.
Taking runs between horses from the home turn, Cassidy switched Republic Lad back towards the rail to gain an inside run and the result was never in doubt. - Photo by Steve Hart
“He’s always so fit and hungry and even sometimes he is too keen.
“When he was off (with suspension) he was ringing up asking me about horses. He comes out and rides work and while he doesn’t push himself, when the right opportunity comes along he gets the job done.
“With his experience he is still right up there with the best jockeys in the world.”
Cassidy, less than a week into a comeback after a suspension for whip infringements, was at his front-running best on Scorpio Queen in the Summer Super Saver Ticket Handicap (1800m).
A month shy of his 49th birthday and with his mother Francie trackside, Cassidy dictated his own terms on the $6 chance before Scorpio Queen skipped clear to win by 3-1/4 lengths.
He then produced Republic Lad from the back of the field for an equally commanding win in the Tooheys New Handicap (2000m).
Taking runs between horses from the home turn, Cassidy switched Republic Lad back towards the rail to gain an inside run and the result was never in doubt from the 200-metre mark.
“It was a ten out of ten ride,” Waller said. “You don’t give instructions to a jockey like Jim Cassidy.
“They get a feel for a horse … that’s why they are so good.”
Waller said he marvelled at Cassidy’s survival skills in an industry which is as ruthless as any.
“He’s been doing this for thirty, thirty-plus years,” Waller said.
“That’s an incredible effort but he’s just so fit and athletic and he never loses his confidence.”
Republic Lad, a blue blood racehorse with leg issues in the early part of his career, gave Waller his 50th metropolitan winner for the season as he sets his sights on defending his Sydney trainers’ title.
AAP TURF
