Champion jockey Damien Oliver, at 51, reveals that he is taking his illustrious riding career “year-by-year” as he prepares for another exciting Spring Carnival.
With an impressive 128 Group 1 wins under his belt, Oliver remains a dominant force in Australian horse racing.
However, the veteran is candid about the uncertainty of his future in the sport.
“As long as I’m riding well, feeling good, riding some winners, then I’ll keep going,” Oliver told RSN927.
“I never look too far ahead because in this business you never know what’s around the corner.”
While Frankie Dettori is embarking on a worldwide farewell tour, Oliver is yet to decide if he will have his own farewell tour.
“I’m happy to take the opportunities when they come and keep on winning and keep riding well,” he said.
He also acknowledged the rising competition from younger riders in Victorian racing, mentioning.
“It does get a little bit tougher as far as the younger jockeys coming through.”
As for this year’s Spring Carnival, Oliver is enthusiastic but realistic. He doesn’t have a ‘marquee-type’ horse, but is eager to ride Arkansaw Kid and Brayden Star.
Oliver described Australia’s weight-for-age stocks as being in “a bit of a transition time,” suggesting there could be opportunities for emerging stars like Amelia’s Jewel.
