Prominent jockey Damian Lane is set to make a highly anticipated comeback to Victorian racing in the coming weeks.
Dean Hawkes, Lane’s manager, reportedly confirmed that his return to the saddle on home soil is likely to take place during the Group 3 Aurie’s Star Handicap meeting.
Lane’s absence from Australian tracks has been eventful, as he ventured overseas to compete, predominantly in Japan, where he achieved remarkable success, including a victory in the prestigious G1 Tokyo Yushun (Japanese Derby) astride Tastiera.
During his international campaign, Lane also made an appearance at England’s renowned Royal Ascot, guiding The Astrologist to an impressive fifth-place finish in the esteemed G1 Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes.
To prepare for his long-awaited return to Melbourne racing, Lane is expected to participate in jumpouts prior to his first official meeting back.
Remarkably, despite his absence, Lane has maintained a commendable standing in the Melbourne jockeys’ premiership for the season, currently ranking among the top 10 with an impressive record of 32 wins at a strike-rate of 16.4 percent.
