Adrian Heskin has been appointed as stable jockey to Tom George.
Tuesday 13 September 2016 13:45, UK
Adrian Heskin has spoken of his delight at being appointed stable jockey to Tom George.
George has enjoyed a fruitful relationship with Paddy Brennan in recent years but the Gloucestershire handler has confirmed Heskin will now be joining the team.
Heskin, 24, has a Grade One win at the Cheltenham Festival to his name through Martello Tower and sprang to prominence as a 7lb claimer back in 2010 when winning the bet3665 Gold Cup on Michael Hourigan's Church Island.
"Tom George's yard are constantly producing horses for the big days," said Heskin.
"I'm obviously very happy to be joining him and it's a great opportunity. I'll be moving over after the Listowel Festival in time for the new season.
"It's all very exciting."
Heskin has previously ridden as owner Barry Connell's retained rider in Ireland but he was replaced in that role by Denis O'Regan in April.
Announcing the link up on his website, George said: "This season we have made the exciting appointment of Adrian Heskin as first jockey at Down Farm.
"Adrian has ridden nearly 200 winners in the UK and Ireland, including last year's Albert Bartlett for Margaret Mullins, the Festival Cross Country Chase and the Whitbread Gold Cup for former employer Michael Hourigan.
"At 24, this talented rider has got experience under his belt, ambition and we both greatly look forward to working with the horses here.
"Paddy Brennan and I have had some big days together over the past seasons and I very much hope to be able to give him more winning rides in the future."
Brennan already has a relationship with the Colin Tizzard yard through his deal to partner owner Jean Bishop's horses, for whom he rides King George winner Cue Card.
Another trainer who is expecting to use him more is Fergal O'Brien.
O'Brien told the Gloucestershire Echo: "I found out on the weekend Tom was bringing over someone from Ireland.
"Tom always had first call over Paddy so this is great for us, he is a Gold Cup-winning jockey (Imperial Commander). Hopefully he will be available for a few more of ours.
"Paddy has always been a big part of the yard and we will be seeing a bit more of him."
