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| Staff Writer |
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A young and promising Irish jockey is currently making waves as Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's retained rider at Jebel Ali Racecourse. Ben Coen showed his mettle when he rode Sadeedd in a seven-furlong handicap on dirt. Although Sadeedd broke well, he needed a nudge to keep up with the leaders. Coen had to maintain his position to avoid losing momentum, which can lead to a loss in such races. Despite a tense duel with Triple Venture, Sadeedd emerged victorious, giving Coen his first win in Dubai, which he considers a significant achievement.
Coen's success was only the beginning of a series of wins. He rode Makfoul to victory in a maiden at Al Ain and Bilhayl to win a handicap at Jebel Ali. He also partnered with Lahfaty and Thawban at Meydan and Mozahim and Zaammit at Jebel Ali to complete a double. Coen is grateful for the opportunity to work with Michael Costa, one of the top trainers in Dubai, who offered him the chance to be his first jockey this season.
Before Dubai, Coen went to Australia last year to ride for Chris Waller, John O’Shea, and Mike Cattell. He also rode a few horses for Johnny Murtagh in Dubai, gaining valuable experience and learning new techniques. Coen's mentor, Johnny Murtagh, himself a world-class jockey, rode winners in all major racing jurisdictions in Europe, America, Canada, Hong Kong, and Dubai.
Despite his youth, Coen has already achieved many milestones in his career. He rode his first Group race winner in July 2020 and added another Group race to his CV later that season. By the end of that season, Johnny Murtagh appointed him as his stable jockey. In September 2021, Coen landed his breakthrough Group One win when he won the Irish St Leger on Sonnyboyliston.
Coen's unassuming demeanor and quiet confidence belie his young age, and he is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with in the world of horse racing. His time in Dubai will undoubtedly provide him with further valuable experience and opportunities to improve his skills, and we can expect to see many more milestones from this promising young jockey in the future.