Newcastle’s annual stand-alone meeting has become a staple of the racing calendar, but for jockey Dylan Gibbons, it carries personal meaning.
Born and raised in the city and apprenticed to local trainer Kris Lees, Gibbons also claimed his first black type win there aboard Festival Dancer in the 2021 Spring Stakes.
“That was three or four years ago. I’m starting to feel like I’m an old jockey,” he joked.
“I love it there… It is one of my favourite tracks. Not because I grew up there but it’s a spacious track. It’s a beautiful area and it’s good to get back and see some family and friends.”
Gibbons has eight rides on Saturday, with Maison Louis ($5.50) his best chance in the Listed The Beauford (2300m).
The Queensland Derby winner impressed in the Hill Stakes (1900m) but struggled on soft ground in the Rosehill Gold Cup (2000m).
“He was a little bit disappointing… I thought he didn’t handle the track,” Gibbons said.
Maison Louis sits on the second line of betting in a field of 13.
Gibbons will also partner Infancy in The Hunter (1300m) and Pinot Nero in the Spring Stakes.