Holland all the rage for O'Brien job
Bookmakers Cashmans have stopped betting on who will be appointed the new stable jockey to Aidan O’Brien after seeing a flood of money for Darryll Holland.
The rider started yesterday as a 3-1 chance but had been cut to as short as 1-3 before the book was closed.
Spokesman Joe Burke said: “The betting would suggest it was a done deal. We have no confirmation of that whatsoever but he was the only one anybody wanted today. We just haven’t laid anybody else so we have had to stop betting on it.”
Holland, currently a freelance, last week cut short his stint in Hong Kong.
Paddy Power also saw what they described as a “huge plunge” on Holland.
The rider was available at 3-1 but was clear 4-6 market leader by the close of business, with Johnny Murtagh eased right out to 2-1 from 4-6 and Kieren Fallon 4-1 from 3s.
Meanwhile, Jamie Spencer has confirmed his intention to ride as a freelance in the coming Flat season following his shock resignation as stable jockey to O’Brien.
Speaking for the first time since leaving one of the highest-profile jobs in racing, the jockey outlined his future plans in a statement.
“I will be riding as a freelance in 2005. I am greatly looking forward to renewing my associations with the many trainers for whom I have ridden winners in the past and to forging new links with other trainers,” he said.
“I’m excited about what promises to be a very busy season for me.
“I would like to thank John Magnier, Michael Tabor and the other owners for their support throughout my time at Ballydoyle and to wish them well in the future. I look forward to riding for them again as the opportunity arises.”
