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Published: 08/10/2005 Jonathan Herbert
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Chance For Quinlan
Sean Quinlan is aiming to impress after landing a promising role
with Cotswolds trainer Richard Phillips.
The 21-year-old has left Ireland, where he rode for Edward O'Grady,
to ride as a conditional jockey for Phillips' stable in Adlestrop.
Quinlan was advised to contact Phillips (pictured) by jockey Ken
Whelan and trainer Mick Murphy.
"They told me Richard was looking for a conditional and I decided
to give it a go," he said.
"I wasn't really getting a chance in Ireland, so I rang Richard
and he said: 'Come over and I'll see what you're like.'
"I rode out for him and he was happy with what he saw.
"It's exciting for me to be here and I'll do my best to do well.
"I want to get a few rides and have a few winners. Richard said
he would try his best to give me rides and that if I'm good enough,
there are plenty of rides here."
Quinlan, who has ridden three winners, has been impressed by the
innovative approach at his new workplace and the opportunity to
learn from a host of star names.
He benefitted from the advice of O'Grady's former stable jockey
Norman Williamson in Ireland - "He taught me a lot" - and is now
receiving assistance from Richard Dunwoody and Phillips' two main
jockeys, Richard Johnson and Warren Marston, who ride out regularly.
He received a further boost when Phillips brought in riding guru
Yogi Breisner for a coaching session at the stable, which included
dressage and jumping.
"Richard looks after everyone and wants them to do well," said Quinlan.
"Richard Dunwoody comes down to teach us on the equisizer (mechanical
horse) and Yogi Breisner was here the other day too, which was great.
"He is a good boss to work for. You can have the 'craic' with him
and he's really down to earth.
"He'll tell you what he thinks and he's straightforward."
Quinlan's new role includes the chance to ride the useful Dark'n
Sharp on a daily basis.
The five-times winner struggled in three runs last season after
returning from nearly two years off through injury.
"I ride him every day and he seems to be back to his best," said
the Tipperary-born rider.
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