'It means a lot' - David Probert to be crowned all-weather champion jockey

Fresh from the best season of his career, jockey David Probert will add another accolade to his growing list of achievements when he is crowned champion all-weather jockey on Newcastle's All-Weather Championships Finals Day on Friday.

The jockey partnered 170 winners last year and has continued that run of form with a profitable season on the all-weather. On 82 victories, he cannot be caught by nearest rival Hollie Doyle, who is 20 wins down with just a day to go.

He said: "It’s great. It’s rolled on from a very good season last season, but I’ve been very lucky to ride for plenty of different trainers. It means a lot to win and it’s a big achievement, hopefully it bounces into a good turf season."

The rider will have four rides on the Finals Day card, his best chance coming on Imperial Fighter in the Listed Coral Burradon Stakes (1.30).

He added: "It always helps to stay around in the winter and keep my face in the game. I’ve built up good connections who have helped me and given me plenty of opportunities, so I owe a huge thank-you to all the owners and trainers who have supported me."

Probert has hopes of making a Group 1 breakthrough this season and could also challenge for a first jockeys' title, for which he is best-priced 12-1 with William Hill behind William Buick, Tom Marquand and Silvestre de Sousa.

Also at Newcastle, Michael Appleby will be crowned all-weather champion trainer and Godolphin will take champion owner honours.

George Rooke is leading the race for champion apprentice, while three horses – Intervention, Proclaimer and Spartan Fighter – are tied as most successful horse.

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