It’s always a pleasant surprise to see the athletes people admire the most come back to the field. Nick Hall’s return to the race course is one such example. The nine-time group one winner left the equestrian world five years back, after struggling with hip injury. Despite having successful surgery, regrettably, he couldn’t continue as an athlete and retired.

After a long break during which he indulged in studying meditation and experiencing community living in Costa Rica, he finally returned to his passion. But this time in a different role which has surprised many.

The Australian Jockey’s Comeback as a Barrier Attendant

The two-time Caulfield Cup winner Nick Hall will be seen on the race track next season as a barrier attendant. The barrier attendant assists horses in entering the barriers, ensuring they have approved equipment and making necessary adjustments to any damaged equipment. They provide important support to the jockey.

Reflecting on his decision he explained it’s always difficult to find what you going to do after retirement. But, he was happy with the decision. Riding as a jockey was a phase of his life. He is enjoying being a barrier attendant because it’s less stressful and requires a mild disciplined lifestyle. He said, “I was pleasantly surprised, I enjoyed it again, after all this time off“.

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After leaving the racing course the Aussie tried his luck on many racing-related things like breeding, industry-related training, and working as a track rider. Now, it seems he has found his soul again.

Nick Hall’s Elegant Career

Nick Hall started his equestrian career in 2008 as an apprentice. He won the Victorian apprentices’ title in 2008-09  with a total of 109 wins and established himself as Australia’s best rider. In 2010 he won  Blue Diamond Stakes riding Star Witness, and Australian Cup riding Zipping. His memorable wins are winning Caulfield Cup two times, one in 2013 riding Fawkner and the other in 2016 riding Jameka. The son of the renowned jockey and 1992 Melbourne Cup winner Greg Hall has a record of winning 742 races in his entire career.

Nick Hall’s comeback is surprising but pleasant news in the equestrian world. We wish him the best in his new role.

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