Irish jockey Joe Doyle has returned to New Zealand to bolster the country’s riding ranks ahead of the new season.
The 27-year-old hoop enjoyed plenty of success in his first riding stint Downunder, winning 19 races this past season, three of those at stakes level, including the Group 1 Manawatū Sires’ Produce Stakes (1400m) aboard Pignan at Awapuni in April for Lisa Latta.
While in Ireland, Doyle spent most of his time on the Ready To Run Sale circuit, but lapped up the opportunity to spend some quality time with his friends and family.
“I rode one raceday but mostly I was doing ready-to-run sales,” he said.
“The ready to runners is big business at home, as it is here. I had a few good clients to ride for and our last sale was fantastic. We ended up having a sale topper. It was fun and it kept me fit.