 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |
Sam Clipperton, the rising star who conquered The Everest aboard Think About It, has announced his immediate retirement from race riding at the age of 30, bringing down the curtain on a stellar 15 career in the saddle.
The five-time Group One winner, who made his debut aboard Nine Dragons at Wyong in July 2010, enjoyed significant success during his Hong Kong stint, partnering the popular Hot King Prawn to victory in the Gr.2 Premier Bowl over 1200m in 2018, among his 62 winners in the territory.
His most fruitful association came through the partnership with trainer Joseph Pride and Think About It, steering the progressive galloper to nine consecutive victories. The remarkable sequence culminated in back-to-back Group One triumphs in the Kingsford Smith Cup and Stradbroke Handicap, before landing the US$20 million The Everest.
The dual NSW champion apprentice's final ride came aboard the Les Bridge-trained Scorching Legend at Rosehill on December 7, finishing last of six. His last winner was recorded aboard the Gerald Ryan & Sterling Alexiou-trained Revolt at Warwick Farm on November 23.
Previous Everest winners include Yes Yes Yes (2019), Classique Legend (2020, ridden by Kerrin McEvoy), Nature Strip (2021, James McDonald), and Giga Kick (2022, Craig Williams), highlighting the prestige of Clipperton's achievement in the world's richest turf race.
Taking to social media, Clipperton said: "My last day as a professional jockey. A decision I have treated with the utmost respect. After 15 years of race riding, the time is now to pursue other goals and I am excited for what is in store for the future."
While his future plans remain undisclosed, Clipperton expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating: "Thank you to everyone who has supported me along my journey."