Melbourne Cup winning jockey Gerald Mosse, has announced his retirement just before his mount in Saturday’s Group 1 Grand Prix de Paris. Mosse’s final ride was in the big handicap on Bastille Day at Chantilly, aboard Shannkiyr. Bred by Mosse’s longtime employer, the Aga Khan, and trained by Mikel Delzangles, Shannkiyr finished 15th of 16. Despite the result, the moment was memorable.
Co-owner Pierre-Yves Lefebvre wished Mosse well, saying, “For the last time, travel well Gerald.” Mosse was honoured with a guard of honour by fellow jockeys and received a bouquet and a framed print of Zainta winning the 1998 Prix de Diane from Alain de Royer-Dupre.
Mosse, who plans to start a training career as early as September, said, “I was determined to go out as I came into the profession, and that is with a smile on my face. The most important thing is that I have a project to pursue which will prolong my involvement with this sport that I am so passionate about.”
Mosse has secured a beautiful yard in Chantilly and looks forward to meeting potential owners and having his first runners in September. “I’ve done what’s needed in terms of getting a licence and buying a yard and now I am ready to attack that second career with ambition,” he said.