PADDY BRENNAN WALKED out on his job as Nigel Twiston-Davies’ stable jockey last night following weeks of frustration at the manner in which he was being overlooked by the trainer.
The 29-year-old had been retained by the Gloucestershire yard for the past four seasons, riding a number of high-profile winners including the 2010 Cheltenham Gold Cup champion Imperial Commander.
Despite his excellent record, Brennan’s opportunities were limited in recent weeks as Twiston-Davies favoured his 18-year-old son, amateur jockey Sam, for an increased number of rides. The Galway native informed the trainer of his decision to part ways following racing at Ludlow yesterday afternoon.
Speaking last night, Brennan thanked both trainer and owners for their support during his time at the yard. He was unequivocal, however, when asked to explain his decision.
Sam Twiston- Davies is up and coming and he is Nigel’s son and that is the bottom line, as blood is thicker than water.
Though the jockey’s future had been the source of recent speculation, Twiston-Davies told the Racing Post that he was slightly taken aback by Brennan’s decision to leave, though he hoped that they could maintain a successful working relationship nonetheless.
“It has all come as a bit of a surprise,” he said. “I didn’t realise he was going to make this decision, but that is fine.”
It is definitely a case of Paddy deciding to leave rather than me pushing him. If he thinks this will improve his career, good luck to him.
There has been absolutely no falling out, and hopefully Paddy will still be riding lots of winners for me.
