Back to business: Del Frari returns to the saddle

Jess Del Frari, pictured here with Kyla Harrison, will ride Azucar at Narromine on Monday. Image: Racing Photography.

Forbes-based apprentice jockey Jess Del Frari will put almost two years on the sidelines behind her when she returns to race riding at Coonabarabran on Saturday.

The 27-year-old brings plenty of experience to the saddle despite still claiming 1.5kg, having ridden more than 700 times for 54 career victories.

Now apprenticed to Forbes trainer Melissa Harrison, Del Frari will partner Chebet and Pattera at Coonabarabran before travelling to Narromine on Monday, where she is booked to ride Azucar, Sibeila and Invasive.

"I am definitely excited," Del Frari said.

"I wouldn't say I'm nervous. I'm at that stage now where I'm just happy to be back riding."

Del Frari relocated to Forbes in late March and has quickly settled into life with the Harrison stable, a move that has provided a valuable advantage ahead of her return.

"I have definitely settled in and am actually enjoying it now. It's been a good change for me," she said.

"I've ridden all of them, which is great and a big help. Now it's about getting back to the races and back to business."

While many riders might return with lofty ambitions, Del Frari is keeping things simple and focusing on making the most of every opportunity.

"I always hope they come out and win, so I'm going in with confidence," she said.

"They have all been running well, which is also a big confidence booster, but it's racing, and we'll see how we go."

The apprentice is keen to rebuild momentum in the saddle and hopes a strong return can lead to further opportunities across the region.

"Hopefully I can show off a bit on a few of Mel's and from there get some opportunities to show people I'm back," Del Frari said.

For bookings, trainers can contact Jess Del Frari on 0400 203 375 or Melissa Harrison on 0422 145 905.

Words: Jeff Hanson/Dusty Hooves Media

Image: Janian McMillan/Racing Photography