Hollie Doyle planning Hong Kong stint

Hollie Doyle and Dylan Browne McMonagle have been granted temporary licences to ride in Hong Kong later this year, joining a growing contingent of jockeys trying their hands on the competitive circuit.

Harry Bentley and Andrea Atzeni have recently been joined by David Probert and Derby winner Richard Kingscote in Hong Kong, looking to take the next step in their careers.

For Doyle, who has has spent the last few winters riding in Japan, it is another new challenge.

She said: “I’ve had the pleasure of riding in Hong Kong over the last few years, albeit for in-and-out trips to compete in the International Jockeys’ Championship and ride at Sha Tin on the big Hong Kong International Races Sunday, and I’ve had a bit of luck at those meetings.

“This will be different, though, and I’m under no illusion that this first proper stint isn’t going to be as easy-going as that.

“I like a challenge and I’m going to give it a good go. I’ve enjoyed riding around Happy Valley and Sha Tin on my trips so far and I think Hong Kong is probably the best place in the world to develop your skills as a jockey.

“You have to be very sharp and ready to make split-second decisions. It’s a style of racing you have to get used to and I’ve come to enjoy the dynamics and tactical nature of how the races are run.

“I’m going there to ride winners, but I’m under no illusion how hard it can be to pick up good rides.

“I can do a light weight which is handy I suppose, but there are plenty of high-class international jockeys out there at the same time as me.

“Hopefully, I can use the time to develop, learn the system in Hong Kong and ride a few winners along the way.”

Doyle’s licence is valid between November 5 and December 23 while Browne McMonagle, on course to be champion in Ireland for the first time, will arrive in the new year and ride between January 1 and March 29.

James McDonald and Maxime Guyon have also been granted short-term licences.