Feature win would add spice to comeback

Jockey Peter Hutchinson's colourful and amazing career could take another significant turn today at Caulfield as he attempts to break a city-winning drought that has stood for almost a decade when he rides Emjay Hussey in the $100,000 Christmas Stakes.

Hutchinson has had a remarkable career, being one of the main stable riders for the powerful Hayes outfit in the 1980s and '90s, but retired from the saddle for a number of years after his energy for the sport waned.

But today, after more than a year back in the saddle, Hutchinson has the chance to score his first city success since his comeback when he rides Emjay Hussey in the big sprint, a point not lost on the England-educated rider.

''There's a bit at stake here. The horse is trained [at Sale] by Ian Hutchins, who has been a supporter of mine for decades; secondly, I need a city winner,'' said Hutchinson.

''I can't tell you how much I'm enjoying being back riding after so long out. I bounce out of bed and relish every task from riding work at five o'clock in the morning to travelling to a city or country meeting.''

To read the full article by Patrick Bartley in The Age click here.