Holder Jumps at Dalasan Doncaster Opportunity

Jockey Jason Holder has been given the ride on Group 2 winner Dalasan (Dalakhani-Khandallah, by Kitten's Joy) for this Saturday's Gr1 Doncaster Mile by co-trainer Leon Macdonald, reports racing.com. "Leon asked how I would feel about sacrificing Morphettville this Saturday to ride Dalasan in the Doncaster and I didn't hesitate in saying yes," Holder said. "Lunch is definitely off today with the pursuit of a famous Group 1 race the only thing on my menu now. I can always ride 54kg pretty comfortably so I've got plenty of time to ensure I'm at 53kg for Saturday. Meals this week will now be pretty much salad based and I will just up my exercise regime a fraction more than normal." Holder revealed, "My dogs will be happy about that as it will probably mean their regular daily outings will stretch out a little longer. It's a wonderful opportunity that Mr Macdonald and the connections have presented to me and I can't wait. Harry (Perks) his breeder and part owner has done his best to help me out as well by drawing gate one at the barrier draw." Dalasan hasn't won since April 2020 when he won the Gr3 SAJC Chairman's Stakes, but his last six starts have all been in Group 1 races. In total, he has won seven of his 23 starts and over $2.2 million.

Dalasan (red cap) will be ridden by Holder on Saturday (pic: Mark Gatt)