Mongan to freelance after trainer split

Ian Mongan will ride as a freelance this year following a split with trainer Nick Littmoden.

The pair had enjoyed a fruitful relationship since linking up in February 2002 but Littmoden will not be looking for a replacement and intends to use the best jockey available in the future.

Mongan, who rode 80 winners last season, told the Racing Post: “I am going to be freelancing this year and although I will still work with Nick when I can, I just felt the relationship had gone as far as it could.

“Our first season together was fantastic for both of us, but last year wasn’t so good. The horses just weren’t firing and I felt that held me back a little bit.

“That, and the fact that I am going to be riding out for Michael Bell and trying to branch out a bit more, has encouraged me to freelance.”

Littmoden trained 54 winners last season, with 32 of those being ridden by Mongan.

The trainer added: “We are keeping all communication lines open and Ian has ridden winners for us this winter but I am not going to retaining anyone this year.”