Derreck David
South African jockey Derreck David could be returning to Mauritius to ride for the Gilbert Rousset Stable in 2015, pending a final decision from the Mauritius Turf Club.
Should the go-ahead be given, Derreck David will replace Johnny Geroudis, who will not be back in Mauritius this year.
It marks a change of direction for the yard of Gilbert Rousset who had been associated with Johnny Geroudis since mid-2010. During that time, this partnership set the standard in Mauritius : 6 classic wins – 2 in the Maiden Cup, 2 Duke Of York Cups, and a win apiece in the Duchess Of York Cup and Barbé Cup. In addition, Johnny Geroudis was champion jockey in 2012.
Fellow countryman Derreck David is no stranger to the Mauritian public.
Signed to ride for Vincent Allet stable in 2013, he performed impressively, winning two feature races on Hot Rocket and Silver Dice – the latter in the Coupe des Presidents. He also bagged 2 wins on Istiqraar, helping him win the three year-old championship, and also scored on the Ramapatee Gujadhur-trained Vettel in the Group 1 Mauritius Derby – Ladies’ Day Cup.
Johnny Geroudis – giving it a miss this term
Derreck David was signed by the yard of Paul Foo Kune in 2014, but this partnership was to be short-lived. The South African jockey had been delivering the results, and was the leader of the SMS Pariaz Jockeys’ Championship. However, it all came to an abrupt halt at race meeting 20.
He was found guilty of riding in a ‘reckless manner’, whilst aboard Always Flirting in the 4th race. He was banned for four meetings, and was fined Rs 100,000.
Despite that, he did contribute to Paul Foo Kune stable winning the 2014 Stables’ championship, and his 3 wins on board Ryder Cup paved the way for him to become champion horse also.
There is nothing to suggest that the partnership between Derreck David and Gilbert Rousset cannot be a success. The South African jockey has risen to the task, when given the tools.
Whereas for Gilbert Rousset, he is as determined as ever to bounce back from losing the Stable championship crown last season.
