Don't underestimate the role jockeys play in races

KIERAN Shoemark's demotion from being John and Thady Gosden's stable jockey came after almost a year of whispers and social media chitchat whenever a fancied high-profile runner from the yard with him on board lost.

- Jim BEAVIS

His fast-finishing second place on Field Of Gold in last week's 2,000 Guineas proved the straw that broke the camel's back.

It prompted thoughts of owners or trainers who stuck with jockeys for years, if not decades, through thick and thin despite the riders not being at the very top of the tree.

Sheikh Hamdan retained Michael and Richard Hills year after year. Dane O'Neill was number two for Richard Hannon senior for ten years and filled a similar role for Sheikh Hamdan and his Shadwell Stud for twelve.

Sir Mark Prescott employed George Duffield as stable jockey for 30 years even though the pair's relationship was not always a smooth affair.