Michael Rodd flying the flag for New South Wales in Origin Jockey Series

CHAMPION jockey Michael Rodd is heading back to where it all started and will be a star attraction on day one of this year’s Origin Jockey Series.

Micheal Rodd has been riding in Singapore recently.

CHAMPION jockey Michael Rodd is heading back to where it all started and will be a star attraction on day one of this year’s Origin Jockey Series.

Even though he made his name in the Sunshine State and his name appears four times on the honour board for Queensland’s Champion Apprentice, there was only ever one state Rodd was going to ride for.

“It’s going to be great to represent New South Wales,” he said.

“I love Queensland and there’s no doubt that’s where I will eventually retire, but I’m a born-and-bred New South Welshmen. I’m no Greg Inglis and I will definitely be riding for the Blues. Watching the State of Origin (rugby league) series the last decade has done my head in.”

Rodd, who has done his recent riding in Singapore, will ride at a twilight meeting at Doomben on Friday, December 9 and then take his place on day one of the jockeys series the following day at Eagle Farm.

The series will be held over three Saturdays, on December 10, 17 and January 7.

“Our season ends the week before and I’m really excited about it,” Rodd said. “I was approached (for the Origin series) last year, but it just didn’t work out, so it will be good to have another spin around those two tracks.

“I know they are getting together a really good group of jockeys this year and I’m looking forward to being able to showcase Queensland racing.”

Rodd, a Melbourne Cup winner in 2007 on Efficient and a 34-times Group 1 winner in Australia and New Zealand, had a life-changing moment in February when he and wife Cara welcomed baby Lila to the world.

“It’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” he said.

“Racing used to be the first thing in my life. I used to think about it 24/7. Now it’s secondary.”

Rodd is about to complete his second full season in Singapore. He is fifth on this season’s premiership and his 20 per cent strike rate is superior to any other full-time jockey there this season.

Last year he rode 81 winners to finish third in the title race.

Micheal Rodd won a Melbourne Cup winner in 2007 on Efficient and a 34-times Group 1 winner in Australia and New Zealand.

Race added to Sunshine Coast meeting

RACING Queensland have added the lost 1350m Open Handicap from last Saturday to Wednesday’s Sunshine Coast meeting, meaning 13 races will be run on that day.

The Queensland branch of the ATA believes the race is an important lead-up into the Summer carnival.

Originally published as Michael Rodd flying the flag for New South Wales in Origin Jockey Series