Racing: Top jockey back from stint in Sydney

Rory Hutchings wants to add to his G1 tally. Photo / Bradley Photography

Talented rider Rory Hutchings has returned to New Zealand after being based in Sydney for the past four years.

The 23-year-old, who last rode on raceday on January 12, has battled with his weight in recent years after winning the Sydney apprentice jockeys' premiership in 2016.

"I put a timeline of around a month before I am back riding," Hutchings said.

"I am a bit heavy at the minute, so I will just be riding work and getting my weight down until then.

"I will be based at Matamata to start with, living with my parents, so that is where I am going to be riding work until I get back to the races.

"I would like to spread myself around and ride for quite a few stables.

"If I can get back riding around 56kgs again, that is a big advantage."

A three-time champion apprentice jockey in New Zealand before venturing to Sydney at the behest of champion trainer Chris Waller, Hutchings' career highlights include Group One victories aboard Soriano in both the Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) and the Zabeel Classic (2000m). Hutchings said he loved his time in Sydney and has no regrets.

"I rode for the best in the business over there and I am very proud of what I achieved. It is something that will stay close to my heart for the rest of my life.

"I wouldn't change the way things went for a thing.

"My fondest memory is coming home with the Champion Apprentice title, which is very hard to do over there and that is probably one thing that does stand out.

"It will be good to just get back to the races and spend time with family and once that happens the long-term goal will be to add to the Group One tally."

- NZ Racing Desk