Leading jockey Pat Carbery is poised for a triumphant return to the saddle this Saturday in the Group 1 $1.5 million Winterbottom Stakes at Ascot, reuniting with his great mate, the favourite Jokers Grin, after a challenging fortnight sidelined with a concussion.
From Setback to Comeback
The experienced hoop's path to the major race was thrown into disarray just two weeks ago when he was unshipped from a mount, sustaining a concussion that left him with little memory of the incident. Carbery was forced to sit out for a mandatory 12 days, a period he describes as frustrating but necessary in line with modern sports protocols.
His absence created a last-minute scramble for trainer Bernie Miller and the owners of Jokers Grin, who were preparing for the Colonel Reeves Stakes. The ride went to another veteran jockey and close friend of Carbery's, Shaun O'Donnell, who expertly guided the horse to victory.
"It was very weird to be on that other side of the fence," Carbery admitted. "Obviously, I was happy to see the horse win. It was mixed emotions that I wasn't on him but it was great to see the horse run well."
A Bond Forged Over Generations
Carbery's connection with the five-year-old gelding, affectionately known as 'Lukey', runs deeper than a typical jockey-horse relationship. Carbery actually rode Jokers Grin's mother, establishing a generational link that began when the horse was still at the breakers.
He recalls the first time he sat on the young horse, immediately sensing his potential. "Good horses will give you that feel all day long - they don't have to go fast, you just know," Carbery said, reflecting on the early assessment that proved correct.
The journey hasn't been without its hurdles. Jokers Grin's career debut was a disappointment, finishing fourth after racing too fiercely. Carbery and Miller made the crucial decision to go back to 1000m to teach the horse to relax, a strategy that has paid significant dividends and transformed him into a more professional racehorse.
Primed for Winterbottom Glory
This preparation has been flawless for the son of Maschino, with two impressive come-from-behind victories in the Prince Of Wales and Colonel Reeves Stakes demonstrating his newfound maturity. Carbery reports the horse is in peak condition, bouncing out of his runs better than ever.
For only the second time in his 12-start career, Jokers Grin has drawn a favourable barrier (five), setting the stage for a compelling contest. He enters the race as the $2.60 favourite, just ahead of the eastern states raider Overpass at $2.70.
Carbery remains cautious, noting that while Overpass is a clear danger, other contenders like Rey Magnerio and Oscar's Fortune also command respect. "They're all in it and they're all being prepared to win it," he stated.
As for his pre-race routine, the cool-headed Carbery plans a simple fish dinner and an early night, while he expects his great mate and trainer Bernie Miller to be pacing with nerves. "Bernie is not as chilled as me," Carbery laughed. "He definitely doesn't sleep as well as me."
