Jockey Tiffani Brooker’s decision not to rush her comeback from injury has reaped benefits with her win on He’s The Deel at Doomben.
A former champion Queensland apprentice and winner of five stakes races, Brooker had not ridden in a race for 11 months when she steered Travistee to win the Gatton Cup on June 1.
He’s The Deel ($5.50) was only her fourth ride back when he won a maiden over 1660m on Wednesday.
Brooker was forced out of the saddle in July last year by severe pain between her shoulder blades, headaches and occasional blurred vision.
It was eventually traced to a lower back injury she sustained in a fall in February last year.
“I had a few hiccups getting back in the saddle. But I have given myself time to get both physically and mentally right,” Brooker said.
“But I am pleased that trainers have stuck with me and I am happy this horse has won today after having no luck at his first start.”
Winning trainer Stuart Kendrick has high hopes for both He’s The Deel and Brooker.
“It is great to have Tiff back as she has been through a bit,” he said.
He’s The Deel is a half brother by sire Dundee’l to Kendrick’s smart galloper Patronizing.
He is another example of Kendrick’s ability to find a bargain as he cost only $25,000 at the Magic Millions Sales but looks to have a bright future as a stayer.
It was the first leg of a treble for Kendrick who also won with Stepped In Paint ($11) and Tambo’s Mate ($1.60).
