Jockeys Cue For A Shot On Smart Missile

With the tragic news of Crystal Lily’s death this morning also came the realisation that star jockey Glen Boss would not be able to ride Smart Missile in the 2011 Sir Rupert Clarke Stakes.

For trainer Anthony Cummings it’s a case of wondering just what he’s done wrong given the luck this horse has had in Group 1 level.

First it was the controversial Golden Slipper scratching, then it was interference in the Golden Rose and now not only does he have the outside draw in 17, he also needs to make a last minute jockey change.

One positive for him though is that there has been no shortage of offers from just about every jockey capable of riding at 53kg.

He says there have been almost a dozen expressions of interest from Australian based riders including the likes of James Winks, Stephen King and Joe Moreira.

In addition to that though applications are also coming in from overseas with Hong Kong based expat Brett Prebble leading the charge.

“Nothing is confirmed…the list is growing…there’s a few there to pick from so we’ll just wait and see what the owner wants to do with it all,” Cummings said.

“News travels fast, I think the first call came just before he hit the ground.”

It’s no surprise so many are interested in scoring a ride on the colt given many rate him the most exciting prospect in the country.

Jockey issues are fine, all things to do with the horse are shaping up well for tomorrow.

“The horse is fine, he’s in good shape going into the race,” Cummings said.

“Whoever gets the ride will earn their pay from barrier 17.”

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