Racing: McEvoy quits position with Godolphin

Jockey Kerrin McEvoy. Photo / Sarah Ivey

International jockey Kerrin McEvoy has quit his position as a full-time rider for Godolphin, ending more than a decade of riding for one of the world's most influential thoroughbred stables.

McEvoy stepped down yesterday after speaking to John Ferguson, an adviser to Sheikh Mohammed's Godolphin racing empire.

His decision to chase freelance opportunities comes after a restructure of Godolphin's racing activities in Europe, the United States and more recently in Australia.

Godolphin no longer retains jockeys on a full-time basis and the uncontracted McEvoy said it was time to sever ties with a stable which lured him to Europe in 2003 as an understudy to champion jockey Frankie Dettori.

Since John O'Shea's appointment as Godolphin's Australian trainer in May, McEvoy has had to share the stable's rides with outside jockeys, most notably James McDonald.

"In a nutshell, John O'Shea has been given the go-ahead to put on a jockey that he chooses," McEvoy said.

"Obviously there has been a shift in relation to the amount of rides I've been getting and the quality of rides.

"I have been blessed to have been given this amazing opportunity to ride for Godolphin and Darley all over the world.

"It has been a life-changing experience. I am indebted to Sheikh Mohammed and the whole team for their support over the journey and I wish them all the best for the future."

A Melbourne Cup-winning jockey, McEvoy's overseas wins for the Sheikh Mohammed included the English St Leger and the UAE Derby.

"There's been no bust-up or falling out and we walk away still good friends."