Talented young jockey Liam Riordan is set to return to New Zealand in November following a successful visit there last Saturday.
Riordan recorded a double at Ashburton in partnership with Te Akau’s Mark Walker and Sam Bergerson, a connection that came up through his association with Ben Gleeson, Te Akau’s Melbourne-based assistant trainer.
“It was a good experience, obviously had good success and I’m open to going again,” Riordan reflected.
Riordan will further enhance that Te Akau relationship by riding for them during the New Zealand Cup Carnival next month.
“I’m open to anything,” Riordan said.
“Obviously, my main focus is Melbourne but it’s quite tough. I’m still optimistic with all these lightweight rides going that I might pick up something but if not, you’ve got to create your own opportunities for success.
“I’m going to go over there in the middle of next month for a week or a fortnight and ride the Riccarton Carnival, that’s the only thing locked in at the minute.”
Riordan’s visit to New Zealand is the latest example of his ‘have saddle, will travel’ approach, after he’s previously travelled to South Australia and Tasmania from his Melbourne base to expand his opportunities.
“I’d like the opportunities to be a bit closer but suspension and probably not being up to the upper class of the other jockeys at the minute, I’ve just had to go where the opportunities have risen,” Riordan explained.
“I’m always looking to create opportunity and a chance to ride winners.”
