In-form jockey Luke Dittman warms to winning race on Sunshine Coast named in honour of father Mick

LUKE Dittman has set his sights on some big races this winter but none would give him more satisfaction than winning the race named in honour of his father.

LUKE Dittman has set his sights on some big races this winter but none would give him more satisfaction than winning the race named in honour of his father at Caloundra on Saturday.

Dittman has secured the ride on Sold For Song in the Mick Dittman Plate, a race run at Listed level since 2012.

“It would be pretty special to win a race named after the old boy,’’ Dittman Jr said. “I would be over the moon if I could pick it up and I think she’s got a top chance.’’

Dittman secured the ride after Sold For Song’s regular rider James Orman opted to stick with Blue Desert Moon.

The question of living up to the deeds of his famous father is one Dittman has been asked thousands of times but it is not something that bothers him.

“I wouldn’t change it for the world,” he said. “Naturally he was a freak of a rider but the experience he can hand to me is something not many people would be lucky enough to get.

“He’s often the first to call after the races and if I murder one, he’s not afraid to give me a bake.’’

Dittman has been in superb form in recent weeks, including a double at last week’s Weetwood meeting, and he goes to Caloundra confident of more success on Saturday.

Dittmans

“Worthy Cause (Ascot Handicap) is going exceptionally well and I’m really happy with him,’’ he said. “He’s come back a stronger horse and I think he’s going to be very hard to beat.’’

Dittman Sr described his 24-year-old son as “a bit of a late bloomer’’.

“He’s really come of age with his riding,” Mick said.

“He’s more consistent, can use the whip in either hand and is very effective.

“I think still having a 1.5kg claim, he’s a good option.”

Originally published as In-form jockey Luke Dittman warms to winning race on Sunshine Coast named in honour of father Mick