Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Brett Prebble, who rode with distinction in Hong Kong for more than a decade, has officially announced his retirement from an illustrious career in the saddle.
Victorian-born Prebble, who also boasts victories in the Group 1 Caulfield Cup (2400m) and Group 1 Golden Slipper (1200m), concluded his career in Sydney.
His last winner came aboard Eagle Nest at Rosehill on November 11, with his final race rides on February 24 at Rosehill.
“It’s a real mix of emotions, but I know the time is right,” Prebble stated.
“I’ve had the most incredible career. It’s not lost on me just how fortunate I am to leave my time in the saddle a fit, healthy, happy, and content 46-year-old.
“Over four decades of riding I’ve seen way too many times just how incredibly dangerous, devastating, and life-changing the job can be.”
Reflecting on his career, Prebble expressed gratitude and pride.
“I’m extremely grateful, proud, and genuinely satisfied with what I’ve been able to achieve both in Australia and internationally. A CV including a Melbourne Cup, Caulfield Cup, Golden Slipper, a 15-year career in Hong Kong with more than 800 winners including the Hong Kong Derby and basically every other major race there, as well as the most incredible Group 1 winners in Japan and Singapore.
“Reflecting on it, I know it’s real but it’s also totally surreal at the same time.
“It leaves me lost for words to be honest.”
Prebble’s early career highlights include nine wins in the 1999 and 2000 Flemington Melbourne Cup carnival. He was apprenticed to Terry O’Sullivan before transferring to John Meagher to complete his apprenticeship.
In late 2002, he moved to Hong Kong, where he spent 15 years before returning to Australia, initially in Victoria before relocating to Sydney.
Beyond racing, Prebble has owned and operated the riding gear business Persuader for 25 years and will now focus on that venture with his business partner, Mark Bourke.
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