David Mollett writes in the Racing Express that Hong Kong based Douglas Whyte will not be riding star gelding Abashiri in the Gr1 Vodacom Durban July after all.
Karl Zechner – back in the groove
It was reported earlier this week that Whyte had been offered the ride ahead of Abashiri’s regular jockey Karl Zechner, but plans have changed again following Whyte’s intended flight schedules.
Mollett quotes trainer Mike Azzie as saying: “When (owner) Adriaan van Vuuren saw Dougie’s travel plans he became worried. He correctly pointed out that – if he was arriving on the day of the race – what happens if the flight is delayed? We have no plan and could be left without a jockey.”
The article did not specify whether Zechner will indeed be re-engaged, or whether another suitable jockey will be found as the Azzie camp was clearly worried about pressure on Zechner going into the July.
In an interview with SA Horseracing.com on Wednesday afternoon, Azzie confirmed that Zechner had been re-united with Abashiri.
He said: “It may well be the case that this horse actually loves Karl and the two of them are like a hand in a glove. They fit. He’s the only one for him.”
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