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KIERAN SHOEMARK is poised to take a crucial chance to impress John Gosden this Sunday in Paris.
Charlie Fellowes has brought him on board for the French 2000 and 1000 Guineas, where he’ll be up against two notable horses from Gosden’s barn after being replaced as the leading jockey.
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Credit: PA
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Credit: PA
Shoemark, 29, was initially set to ride Gosden’s Detain and Zanzoun in the colts’ and fillies’ Classics, respectively, but will now challenge them at Longchamp aboard Luther and Shes Perfect.
Just days after a disappointing showing on Field Of Gold in the Guineas last Saturday, Gosden decided to part ways with Shoemark, following his apology for racing with ‘too much confidence’ amidst criticism.
Shoemark has come under significant scrutiny since stepping in for Frankie Dettori at Clarehaven, and his subpar performance at Newmarket evidently became the final straw for Gosden.
Fellowes, who operates out of Newmarket, has consistently supported Shoemark and continues to do so wholeheartedly.
Fellowes stated: “The Gosden position is highly demanding and comes with substantial pressure, but I believe he is more than capable.
“For reasons out of our control, things didn’t pan out, but one person’s setback is another’s opportunity.
“While I sympathize with him, it’s a fantastic chance for me because I want him on as many of my horses as possible.
“Jim Crowley and Rossa Ryan were previously in contention for rides on Sunday since I thought Kieran would be unavailable. Now that he is, it was the clear choice.
“I truly appreciate Jim and Rossa for their understanding. I discussed it with my owners as soon as we received the news, and they were keen to have Kieran on board.
“He’s an exceptional jockey, and with two strong contenders in Group 1s at Longchamp, he’ll have all the motivation he needs. Winning a major race together would be remarkable.
“Both Luther and Shes Perfect are in great form, and I’ll be very disappointed if they don’t perform at a high level.”
Despite his position, Shoemark rode for Gosden the following day, finishing last of seven in the Cheshire Oaks on Queen Of Thieves, and will continue to take rides for the stable.
However, Clarehaven horses will now be piloted by ‘the best available jockey’ in key races, significantly limiting Shoemark’s chances.
Gosden remarked: “We aim to utilize the top talent from this point forward. We have eight jockeys designated for owners tied to the stable, and I haven’t had a retained jockey since William Buick.
“There’s no conflict; it’s simply the fallout from what transpired over the weekend at Newmarket. We will now seek the most skilled rider available.”
Luther, currently quoted at a top price of 20-1 for the Poule d’Essai des Poulains on Sunday, finished second to Detain during his return at Chelmsford, and Fellowes believes he can exceed that performance this time.
Likewise, Shes Perfect, available at 14-1 for the Poule d’Essai des Pouliches, placed second in a Group 3 in France on her comeback. She is expected to show considerable improvement now.
Fellowes expressed: “I firmly believe Luther is among the finest horses we’ve ever had. We likely would’ve challenged Detain last time, and I think our improvement could surpass his.
“He has an incredible turn of speed, is well-balanced, and should handle the track beautifully; we just hope for a favorable draw.
“Shes Perfect is a robust filly and will undoubtedly improve significantly following her run. I couldn’t be more pleased with either of them.”
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