It has taken hard work, patience and performance for Blake Shinn to get a foothold in the leading Sydney stable of Chris Waller.
But it’s an effort that has been worth it as the top jockey continues to get good opportunities, and results.
While the pair recently lost a Group One win when Junoob was stripped of his Metropolitan victory after testing positive to a banned substance, they have wasted no time getting back in the winner’s circle.
Shinn and Waller combined to take out the first two races at Canterbury on Wednesday and the pair is looking to strike again at Rosehill where they team up in four races on Saturday.
“It’s a privilege to be riding for him,” Shinn said.
“It has taken a fair while to consolidate a spot in the riding ranks of the stable as he’s very loyal to his riders.
“But he’s giving me good support and good opportunities.”
Shinn’s mounts for Waller include two-year-old Feast For Eyes in the TAB Place Multi Plate (1100m).
The colt finished midfield at his only start in October when he was beaten two lengths by Pierrette after missing the start.
A $16 chance for the Magic Millions Classic at the Gold Coast, Shinn said the youngster did not have much luck on debut and he saw merit in his recent barrier trial win at Warwick Farm.
“He trialled impressively before his first-up run when he had a few excuses, was slow away and ran on well,” Shinn said.
“He looked to trial nicely (at Warwick Farm) and while he’s drawn a bit awkwardly on Saturday, he’s a horse who looks to have nice ability.
“He’s in the Magic Millions so you’d like to think if he ran well he might head up there, although Chris will make that decision.”
Shinn’s remaining Rosehill book for Waller includes You’ll Never in the Drummond Golf Handicap and Champagne Cath who resumes in the Schweppes Handicap.
Champagne Cath has posted two of her three career wins at her home track and her only first-up defeat was on a heavy track last preparation.
