O’Brien could yet ride Australia
Aidan O’Brien’s dual Derby hero looked likely to have a new jockey if taking up his engagement in Wednesday’s Group One feature, for which he would carry a weight of 8st 12lb – with O’Brien junior very rarely seen in the saddle at below 9st.
However, he is keen to keep the partnership intact and said at Leopardstown last night: “I might ride him yet. We’ll see what happens over the next couple of days. I’d love to ride him.
“He seems in good form. He’s going to come on for his first run (after a break since the Curragh), if it’s next week.
“As long as the ground is good and quick, he might take his chance.”
Australia is one of 11 remaining possibles for the Knavesmire showpiece and stablemates Kingsbarns, Kingfisher and Hall Of Mirrors have also been confirmed.
