Jack Milner
When punters take a look at the fields for Sunday’s racing at Turffontein, they might be surprised to find an old but familiar name among the jockeys – Piere Strydom.
The former multiple champion jockey will return to the saddle after a year of sitting on the sidelines.
In addition, trainer Justin Snaith has etched his name alongside Belgarion as the jockey for this year’s Hollywoodbets Durban July.
“I’ve been off for a year and did contemplate retirement, but I still wanted to get 11 more winners to reach a career total of 5,500 and have another Durban July win under my belt,” said
Strydom yesterday.
“Getting a July ride was going to help me make a decision whether I would come back to riding or not. My only real option was to try and get one of Justin Snaith’s horses, so I approached him.”
Strydom has been in Cape Town for the last week so much of his negotiations were with Jonathan Snaith.
“I found myself in a Catch-22 situation. They wanted to see me riding to determine whether I was fit enough, and I was waiting for a July ride before I made my decision.
“It was like a chess match.”
Eventually Jonathan Snaith came back to him with an option to ride Belgarion. “I’m very happy with that. He won the July two years ago and he might come back to form.”
Now armed with a mount in the Durban July, Strydom will be back riding work this week and is looking to pick up a few rides for Sunday’s Turffontein meeting.
“Sean (Tarry) said he might throw a few rides my way. I’ve been gymming a bit and spinning a bit to keep fit but there is nothing better to test you than work riding and race riding.
“And a couple of winners will help give me confidence!”