Talented Cambridge jockey Jason Waddell won’t be riding again until the new season.

He is taking an extended break following the loss of his mother, which was subsequently compounded by his own ill-health.

“I’ve been struggling to grieve for my Mum and I had health issues and I wasn’t too good after the Australian Derby,” he said.

“I didn’t want to let anybody down so it was best to take a step away.”

Waddell won the Gr.1 New Zealand Derby (2400m) on the Murray Baker and Andrew Forsman-trained Vin De Dance and retained the ride across the Tasman.

They finished fourth in both the Gr.1 Rosehill Guineas (2000m) and in the Gr.1 Australian Derby (2400m).

“My weight wasn’t good and I was taking five or six kilos off to ride Vin De Dance,” said Waddell, who was also suffering from kidney stones and a kidney infection.

“After I flew home I pretty much didn’t leave the house for a month, but I’m back riding some work now.”

Waddell will enjoy an overseas break before returning home to prepare for the 2018-19 season.
“The family and I are going to Sweden and then around Europe – fortunately I had a pretty good summer here,” he said. 

“It will be nice to get some sun on my back again and I’ll do some training while I’m away.” 

The 32-year-old has ridden 35 winners this season, including seven at Group or Listed level.