Racing:Ruby Walsh will return to the saddle at Newbury on Friday. The leading jockey has been out of action since breaking his leg at Down Royal in early November but has been riding out in Ireland and Britain in recent days.
With the Cheltenham Festival on the horizon, Walsh is keen to get as much practice in as possible and having taken part in some schooling after racing at Leopardstown on Sunday, he was in action at Paul Nicholls’ yard yesterday morning.
He partnered some of the biggest names in racing, including Kauto Star, Big Buck’s and Master Minded and came through with flying colours. After his return on Friday he will then ride Niche Market, a possible Grand National mount, in Newbury’s Greatwood Gold Cup on Saturday.
“I can’t wait to get back. I feel grand, 100 per cent,” Walsh said.
“I feel no effects from the injury since I have come back to work and we have decided that I will be back riding at Newbury on Friday. Paul wants me to ride Niche Market on Saturday as well.
“Willie Mullins and Paul have many serious chances for Cheltenham and, to be frank, I can’t wait.”