Hughes commits to Dubai Carnival

TWO-time champion UK jockey Richard Hughes is set for an extended stay in Dubai this season as he bids to secure highclass rides on Dubai World Cup day in March.

“The racing at the Dubai World Cup Carnival is second to none and there’s no doubt that come March this is where you want to be,” he said while in Dubai last weekend.

“Riding a carnival winner is like riding 100 winners in the UK, so I’ve decided to have a five week stint here this season.”

Hughes is yet to ride a winner during the Dubai World Cup Carnival, but he did manage to add a Purebred Arabian Group 2 title as well as his first ever Meydan victory to his impressive CV last Thursday.

Hughes has now returned to the UK for Christmas after riding in India and Dubai following his time in Hong Kong with Newmarket 1000 Guineas winner Sky Lantern. Hughes finished second in the Indian 2000 Guineas on Sunday aboard Circle of Life trained by former Indian champion jockey Pesi Shroff.

Hughes will enjoy a holiday in Barbados with his family in January before he heads back to Dubai for racing in February and March after riding in the Indian Derby on February 2.

“I’d love to ride a winner on Dubai World Cup day,” Hughes said. “Most years I have only had a few rides but I’ll stay longer this time. It’s a good spot for me as well because I like my golf and it’s probably the best place in the world for golf.

The tall Hughes, 41 in January, stands 5ft 9in but can ride below 55kg. “I feel great and my weight has never been better,” he said. “It’s much easier now that I am not drinking any more.”

- Racingandsports.com.au