SUPERSTAR jockey Jack Kennedy was pictured riding a Cheltenham Festival favourite – as he nears a return from breaking his leg for a sixth time.
Record-breaking jockey Kennedy has been out of action since shattering his leg in a fatal fall last November.
Gordon Elliott’s No1 jockey Jack Kennedy on Stayers’ Hurdle fav Teahupoo – the rider is racing against time to make it back to full fitness for Cheltenham Festival[/caption]
Gordon Elliott has seen the likes of Sam Ewing step into the void left by the Gold Cup-winning rider.
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But it looks like Kennedy, who is still only 25, is preparing to be back at racing’s biggest meeting in fortnight’s time.
Kennedy was aboard Teahupoo, the current 5-4 favourite to defend his Stayers’ Hurdle crown.
The jockey is in a race against time to be fit for the Festival, which begins on Tuesday, March 11.
And he could come back with a bang with the ride on Brighterdaysahead certain to be his.
Elliott said today a decision will be early next week on whether she takes on Constitution Hill in the Champion Hurdle.
Or sticks to the Mares’ Hurdle on the same day to avenge last year’s shock defeat to Golden Ace in the Mares’ Novice.
Either way, Kennedy can look forward to the leg up provided the doctors give him the all clear.
Elliott said: “I’d love to have him back – Jack is part of the team.
“He looks great, he feels sound and is just waiting to get word back from the doctors.
“He’s been back riding out a few days.
“It will be disappointing if he doesn’t ride at Cheltenham. I shouldn’t say it will be a blow because Sam, Danny (Gilligan) and Jordan (Gainford) have all done a brilliant job and they’re all world-class jockeys themselves, but Jack is Jack – they don’t make too many Jacks, you know?
“He’s a great fella and very laid-back – he’s horizontal. Nothing fazes him at all.”
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