01 December 2023 , 16:19
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Top jockey Sean Levey has abandoned his winter routine to seek a fresh challenge in warmer climes.
The 35-year-old, who is first choice rider for the powerful Richard Hannon stable, was flown to Florida to begin what could be a 90-day stint at Gulfstream Park. Levey’s haul of Group 1 wins includes the 2018 1,000 Guineas on Billesden Brook and this year’s Prix Jean-Luc Lagardere on top two-year-old Rosallion.
Between turf seasons he would usually tick over on the all-weather but this year is joining the winter exodus of jockeys overseas. Three-time champion jockey Oisin Murphy will join Levey at Gulfstream from the end of the month, Frankie Dettori has moved permanently to California and Ben Curtis is riding in New Orleans.
“This is something I have always wanted to do,” said Levey. “I have a visa for 90 days and hopefully I will be riding for 90 days.
“I would normally take a holiday around now and ride through the winter on the all-weather. In recent years. it provided a lot of opportunities and a chance to branch out and find new connections.
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“But as time has gone on, Richard has less and less runners on the all-weather and there are less and less good horses on the all-weather
“With prize-money as it is it’s hard to earn a decent living so it made sense to take this opportunity to go to Gulfstream and race for good money, “
Competition for rides at Gulfstream’s Championship Meet is likely to be fierce with many of the best jockeys in the US set to ride there.
“That’s why I have decided to go as early as I am, to use the time to get some rides before all the bigger lads come from elsewhere," said Levey.
“I have connections from years gone by and I am hoping they will come to fruition. I met Saffie Joseph [leading Gulfstream trainer] in Barbados and have ridden trackwork for Brendan Walsh.”
He added: "The experience alone is going to be beneficial. Going round the all-weather every year isn’t beneficial as far as earning is concerned and there is no point doing the same thing every year. It’s nice to learn something else.”