By Daithi Harvey
Multiple Group 1 winning jockey Jimmy Fortune rode his last race on Saturday as the 45-year-old retired from the saddle after finishing third aboard Nathra (Ire) (Iffraaj {GB}) in the G1 Sun Chariot S. at Newmarket. Wexford native Fortune has enjoyed rewarding associations with a number of leading trainers throughout his career and he tasted Classic success aboard Lucarno (Dynaformer) in the 2007 G1 St Leger, one of a number of Group 1 winners Fortune rode for John Gosden. Fortune has endured a tough time with injuries in recent years and suffered a back injury earlier this year which has restricted opportunities throughout this season. “It's been a difficult decision,” Fortune told Racing UK. “I love my racing, love the weighing room. It's my life, so it's been a difficult decision, but we all have to go sometime. I am very grateful to John [Gosden] to put me up in a race of this stature and I felt it was a nice way to go out – riding in a Group One.” Looking back on a highly successful career that began in earnest in 1988 when he rode his first winner at Thirsk Fortune recalled, “There have been many good horses along the way. I've been fortunate and very lucky throughout to ride for some very good people. My best day in racing would probably have been at Ascot, in 2008, when I won the Fillies' Mile on Rainbow View and the QEII on Raven's Pass.” Fortune has not revealed what plans he has for the future only to say, “I've got a few irons in the fire. I've got a few weeks and months to work out what I am going to do. Something will come along.”
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