‘Sad to hear’ say friends as 28-year-old jockey announces retirement after £2.5million career
FLAT jockey Phil Dennis has announced his retirement ahead of his final rides at Beverley today.
The 28-year-old rider, who has career prize money earnings of just shy of £2.5million, says the battle with maintaining his weight has finally got to him.
Dennis has 272 wins from 3,704 rides at the time of writing and his lowest riding weight was 8st 13lbs.
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In a statement on X, Dennis wrote: “The hardest thing I’ve had to do… Beverley will be my last day race-riding.
“I’ve had ten years doing what I grew up dreaming about but the constant battle with my weight has become unsustainable and I feel this decision, although hard, is best for myself physically and mentally.
“I can’t thank the trainers and owners who have supported me enough throughout my whole time in the saddle and the lads in the weighing room that I’ve sat next to day in, day out.
“To ride nearly 300 winners is more than I ever expected as a 17-year-old starting off.
“But as one door closes another one opens, so this will be a time to start a new chapter and won’t I won’t be away from a racecourse for long.
“But I’ll miss my time riding greatly – but look back on with great memories. Thanks to everyone.”
Amo Racing’s No1 rider David Egan was among those paying tribute to Dennis’ career in the saddle.
He wrote in reply to the post: “Sad to hear, one of the nicest guys you could meet.
“Talented horseman and tough competitor. All the best, Phil.”
While Rossa Ryan added: “All the best in the future Phil.”
And Callum Shepherd, who rode a £100,000 Ascot treble on Saturday despite having a hole in his head, said: “You can be so proud of what, and how, you’ve done what you have in your career.
“Best wishes for the future Phil. Been a pleasure sharing the weighing room with you.”
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