Racing: British jockey ends hiatus

New Zealand racing can only benefit from the news that outstanding international jockey Alan Munro will begin his comeback from a four-year break in this country in 2005.

Hamilton-based trainers Graeme Rogerson and Stephen Autridge will host Munro for a two-month stint while the former champion jockey works on his weight and fitness levels.

Munro took a voluntary four-year break from the sport of thoroughbred racing with the intention of returning a far fitter, tougher and more mentally agile jockey.

Munro is the jockey best remembered for his deeds riding Generous when the combination won the 1991 English and Irish Derbies as well as the King George VI and QE II Diamond Stakes.

Generous now stands at stud in New Zealand at Westbury Stud.

Munro has won 38 Group races around the world and Autridge is keen to watch the champion jockey in action in New Zealand.

"The opportunity presented itself for Alan [Munro] to come over here to New Zealand for an eight-week stint to get fit and I jumped at the chance," said Autridge.

"Alan wants to make a comeback to race riding and head back to Europe and he's looking to get back to fitness down here by working for us.

"He'll ride trackwork for us on a daily basis and when he's happy with everything I'm sure he'll want to crank things up and ride at barrier trials and also on race day.

"It'll be an exciting opportunity for New Zealand trainers and fans to watch a top jockey from Europe competing here in New Zealand."