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| Staff Writer |
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Leading jockey Tommy Berry, will ride Mazu, in a pivotal barrier trial next week. Berry is nearing the end of a seven-month disqualification due to "improper dealings with a punter." He has recently returned to trackwork riding but is not officially due to compete in barrier trials until next week. However, Racing NSW has provided dispensation for Berry to take just one ride at Tuesday's trials on the Team Snowden-trained Mazu. This is because Berry is a front-runner for the mount on the top sprinter for the A$20 million The TAB Everest.
Jockey's Weight Loss Journey: Preparing For A Comeback
Berry's ban was reduced from 12 months to seven months on appeal, and he is due to return to race riding. To prepare for his comeback, Berry has been slowly shedding the kilos to get back to his normal riding weight, which is around 54kg. He even spent a few days in a Thailand detox and fitness center last week to ensure he is in top shape for his return.
Sam Clipperton has been Mazu's regular rider but is committed to the Joe Pride-trained Think About It in The Everest. This leaves an opening for Berry to take the ride on Mazu and potentially secure his position as the jockey for the top sprinter in the upcoming race.
Berry's return to the track is highly anticipated by fans and fellow jockeys alike. He has a successful track record and is known for his skill and dedication to the sport. His return to racing will be a welcome sight for those who have missed seeing him in action and will undoubtedly add excitement to the upcoming races.
"My weight is back under 60kg now so I am well within reach of where I want to be when I return for the Rosehill (midweek) meeting on September 27,'' Berry said.
"I've been back riding trackwork for about four weeks now and it is exciting. It is nice to be back at the track with people I enjoy being around.
"What's happened (disqualification) has given me a different perspective on life and my career. I've been able to spend some quality time with my family and now I can't wait to get back to the races.''
According to trainer Peter Snowden, Mazu is expected to undergo two barrier trials prior to his comeback in the prestigious Gr.2 $1 million The Shorts (1100m) event at Royal Randwick on September 16.
The plan is to run Mazu in The Shorts, the Premiere Stakes and third-up into The Everest,'' Snowden said.
"Mazu is a bigger version than the horse that ran third in The Everest (behind Giga Kick and Private Eye) last year.
"He's 25kg heavier and much stronger across the shoulders. He's been a very good sprinter but I believe his best racing is still ahead of him this season.''