Jockey Richard Quinn to leave Cecil yard

Trainer Henry Cecil and jockey Richard Quinn have parted ways.

Trainer Henry Cecil and jockey Richard Quinn have parted ways.

Quinn has decided not to accept a retainer from Cecil's yard for the coming Flat season and will be "keeping his options open" instead.

The rider enjoyed his first full season at Warren Place in 2000 and he partnered 16 winners for Cecil last season.

However, the 266-mile round trip to Newmarket from Quinn's home near Newbury has proved to be one of the main reasons for Quinn's decision.

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He told the Racing Post: "I saw Henry at the end of last year and thought it best if I didn't accept a retainer.

"I will still ride for him but there will be no retainer - the main reason being that I was getting worn out travelling from the Newbury area at 4.30 a.m., coming to Newmarket, then going racing and then going home. It was all up and down.

"I didn't think it fair to ask for a retainer and Henry understood how I felt. God willing, there will be more opportunities open to me and I'm looking forward to the new season."