Veteran jump jockey Daryl Jacob has achieved a major milestone during his final season, notching his 1,000th win in Europe. Jacob, who previously captured the Grand National and multiple Grade One victories, announced his plan to retire at the end of this season and set reaching 1,000 wins as a key goal.
That target was met at Ayr on Saturday when Jacob rode Ottizzini to victory in the United Council Of Racecourse Bookmakers Handicap Hurdle for trainer Stuart Crawford. Hitting this landmark early in the season, Jacob expressed gratitude to those who supported him along the way, especially the "Double Green" partnership of Simon Munir and Isaac Souede, his longtime supporters.
"It’s a wonderful milestone to reach," Jacob said. "It’s been on my mind for the last couple of years, so to get it done early in the season is a relief. There’s been a lot of hard work, and many people have been with me throughout this journey."
Jacob also reflected on his partnership with Munir and Souede, saying, "We’ve had an incredible relationship for over 11 years, and their loyalty and support mean the world to me. It’s something I’m truly proud of in my career."