Former Kilmore apprentice and Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Blake Shinn realised another dream at the weekend by riding his first US winner, at Arlington Park in the Chicago suburbs.
After five months of planning and hard work to be granted a licence to ride in the States, Shinn set off early this month to be based at Arlington with top trainer Wesley Ward.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to broaden my experience and learn from the best jockeys,” Shinn said on his departure.
The five-week contract for the Scobie Breasley Medalist is thought to be the first American contract for an Aussie in around half a century.
At the end of last year, Shinn was ranked number eight in the world.
His first ride at Arlington Park was a close second.
“It’s just a dream come true to be here and experiencing riding in the USA,” Shinn said, reflecting on his first ride.
Saturday’s win was aboard Brisson, trained by Wayne Catalano. The four-year-old mare has 175 owners and the majority were in attendance to witness the victory. The win was so popular that Shinn was forced to remount for photo opportunities.
Shinn finished third in the following race aboard Electrifying.
Shinn returns to his Sydney base in mid-July.
Break for Vista
Kyneton trainer George Osborne has sent Miss Vista to the spelling paddock after her tough run at Moonee Valley last Saturday.
Osborne said the mare pulled up well but was going for a well deserved rest.
The Show a Heart four-year-old hasn’t had much luck in her past two Valley runs.
The flashy bay mare has won four races with two minor placings from only eight starts, collecting just $169,900.
Head for headquarters
Well done to all at the Victoria Racing Club on its gesture in catering for country and provincial members at its raceday at Flemington this Saturday.
The club is offering all members of provincial and country racing clubs complimentary racecourse admission and entry into the members enclosure for themselves and a guest.
A $10 food and beverage voucher per person will also be provided and is redeemable at any of the casual dining facilities in the members.
A nine-race card is programmed, with the feature race, the David Bourke Provincial Plate for horses that have participated in non-metropolitan races during the previous 12 months.
Seymour co-trainers Lee and Shannon Hope could fly the flag for country Victoria with their three-year-old filly Facts a chance in the 1600-metre Super VOBIS event.