British jockey Hollie Doyle is gearing up for a week of global racing glory, with appearances in two prestigious events – the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint and the Goldikova Stakes – before jetting off to Australia for the iconic Melbourne Cup. It’s a testament to her rising star status and a captivating chapter in her already illustrious career.
Doyle will partner with Bradsell in the Prevagen Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint at Del Mar on Saturday, November 2nd. The wide draw, 12 out of 12, presents a challenge, but Doyle remains optimistic, highlighting Bradsell’s exceptional gate speed. “Being posted 12 of 12 isn’t ideal, but we have a chance to overcome it. Bradsell’s got so much gate speed, and we’re hoping to use it to our advantage,” she remarked. She added that she’s confident in Bradsell’s ability to handle the turns, despite never having raced around a bend before.
While Bradsell faces a tough test in California, Doyle is also looking forward to partnering with Kathmandu in the Goldikova Stakes. This is a race she believes Kathmandu, a filly by Showcasing, has the potential to excel in. “I rode her this morning, and she feels in tip-top shape. She’s intelligent, looks fantastic, and Brian (Meehan, her trainer) is really happy with her,” Doyle shared. She recognizes that the wide draw, stall nine, could pose a challenge for Kathmandu, who prefers to race prominently.
Doyle’s week doesn’t end in California. Immediately after the Breeders’ Cup, she’ll be flying to Australia to ride Sea King in the Lexus Melbourne Cup. The call-up came as a pleasant surprise, and Doyle is eager to tackle this legendary race once again. “I’d been searching for a ride in the Melbourne Cup for a few weeks, but I had dismissed the possibility. When Harry (Eustace, Sea King’s trainer) reached out, I was delighted,” she explained. This will be Doyle’s second Melbourne Cup ride, and she’s confident Sea King, a winner of the Bendigo Cup, has the potential to make a strong showing.
After her Melbourne Cup adventure, Doyle will be heading to Japan for a short-term contract until December 22nd, rounding off what has become an exciting international year. It’s a testament to Doyle’s skill, dedication, and growing reputation in the racing world. This is a week that promises to be a highlight of her career, showcasing her abilities on the global stage and further cementing her position as one of the most exciting jockeys in the world today.
