I personally consider jockeys to be much of a muchness. Put say, NSW country jockey Greg Ryan or Vic jockey Peter Mertens on Saturdays winners and I doubt whether the result would be much different. It is mainly about opportunities.

Consider Scott Seamer. A few years ago he was riding at Ballina, Murwillumbah, Coffs Harbour etc. He's given an opportunity and wins the Caulfield & Melbourne Cups and a string of other Group 1's. In my view, Seamer is one of the top 3 jockeys in Australia behind Oliver (clearly best) and W.A's Paul Harvey.

These 3 have the ability to make very quick decisions during a race and are able to sum up situations extremely well. For example, many jockeys persist in trying to gain runs between horses and may well obtain the run but often lose ground by waiting for that to occur. Oliver, Harvey & Seamer won't waste any time doing that if they believe the process will slow them down at all. They will quickly pull the horse out into clear ground and give it every chance unimpeded.

Horses make jockeys and trainers look good. Plenty of cashed up owners and sheer weight of numbers ensure the best bred horses go to the "top" trainers who have many qualified supporting staff to help out.

Would Lohnro still be a great horse if he was trained by John Morrissey in Canberra? I'd think so.

I suppose the point I'm trying to make is try and not get too wrapped up in jockeys and trainers. (I don't bother with them at all) If they are influencing factors for you however, ensure that you place as much weight on the form of the horse as you do on the jockey/trainer and don't simply rely on a jockey, a trainer or a combination of both to win money. In most cases, it is the horse that is first past the post!

* DURRAH in Sydney today.