Jeff Lloyd’s swansong racemeeting at Doomben on Saturday failed to produce a fairytale exit for the great jockey but the locals turned out in numbers to bid their hero farewell.
Punters.com reports that Lloyd had seven rides on his final day in the saddle but the closest he got was second on Auerbach in the open handicap.
Jeff Lloyd
“I suppose that’s racing,” Lloyd said after his last ride on Granny Red Shoes who ran unplaced.
He leaves the sport with more than 5000 winners including 94 in Gr1 company.
Although the season finale is still two weeks away, Lloyd wrapped up his fourth metropolitan title well before Saturday.
It means he has won 19 premierships in three different countries.
The Brisbane Racing Club had a special presentation to Lloyd with jockeys forming an honour guard with his family also attending.
Punters showed their appreciation by standing three deep around the enclosure to give Lloyd a rousing three cheers.
“The coverage (his retirement) it has got has been mind-blowing. I am just incredibly thankful for all the kind words and I have enjoyed my time so much in Australia,” he said.
Lloyd’s wife Nicola paid a heart felt tribute to him.
“You have broken numerous records and done amazing things especially after a life threatening stroke at age 51,” she said.
“And continuing to be an outstanding athlete at your current age of nearly 58. However, those are all just statistics that will stand the test of time but the part I am proudest of is the mark you have left.”
Nicola, who also posted a tribute on social media, said her husband was admired by all in racing for his hard, honest work but he was also respected for his humble nature and sense of humour as well as an ability to laugh at himself.
“He was always wanting to learn and never putting himself above others,” she said.
Lloyd now intends to devote himself to helping his sons Jaden and Zac become professional jockeys.
