Callum Rodriguez eager to seize second chance on return from drugs ban

Jockey Callum Rodriguez has vowed to make the most of his second chance as he returns from a six-month drugs ban at Haydock on Saturday.

Rodriguez was suspended after testing positive for cocaine at Southwell on February 27 and will make his comeback on Intense Romance for boss Michael Dods on the Betfair Sprint Cup card.

"It's been a very difficult time and I'm just glad to be able to have a second chance and put it behind me," said Rodriguez, 22.

"It was a stupid and costly mistake, which I'm deeply sorry for, and I've learned a lot about myself. I've used my time wisely to try and improve as a jockey through fitness and nutrition but now it's time to get back and try to rebuild my reputation."

Rodriguez, who won the 2017 Ebor on Nakeeta when a 5lb claimer, served his apprenticeship with Dods and is grateful for the Darlington trainer's continued backing.

"I'm very lucky to be riding for two very powerful northern trainers in Michael Dods and Keith Dalgleish and they are both willing to give me a second chance," he said. "I can't thank them and all the owners enough for their support."

Callum Rodriguez and Nakeeta following their Ebor victory in 2017Credit: Edward Whitaker

The rider is relishing the prospect of renewing his association with Intense Romance in the Betfair Exchange Be Friendly Handicap (4.45).

"She played a massive part in the early stages of my career as I've won five races on her and two were at Listed level," said Rodriguez. "She won the race last year and will love the soft ground. It's a great ride to come back to and I'm champing at the bit."

Dods is delighted to have Rodriguez back and believes the jockey has the character to bounce back.

"He knows he did wrong and he's worked very hard in the yard over the last six months," said the trainer. "He's a very talented rider and hopefully he'll get back on track and have a good career ahead of him."

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