Gary Stevens, Hall of Fame jockey, has only the fondest memories of his tenure as stable jockey for legendary trainer Sir Michael Stoute, describing it as “the best job in the world.” For Stevens, who had already achieved remarkable success in American racing, the opportunity to join Stoute’s Freemason Lodge was transformative, enhancing his riding skills and fostering a lasting friendship with the Barbadian trainer, whom he describes as a “genius” and close friend.
"It was the best time in my career, and my only regret is not staying longer in the UK," Stevens shared with PA news. The switch to Stoute's stable seemed like an ideal way to manage his knee issues, but Stevens found that racing on turf, with its undulations and longer rides to the start, was more challenging than he’d expected. Yet, the experience made him a more adaptive, confident rider, and Stevens credits Stoute and jockeys like Kieren Fallon and Frankie Dettori with broadening his approach.
One of his standout moments with Stoute was riding the Queen’s horse, Blueprint, to victory in the 1999 Duke of Edinburgh Stakes at Royal Ascot. Other notable achievements included his third-place finish aboard Beat All in the Derby and a memorable win with King’s Best at York’s Acomb Stakes.
Stevens also recalls Stoute's photographic memory and the trust he placed in his riders. “He trusted us completely, and I could speak with him more candidly than with any other trainer. He’d tell us, ‘My work is done, it’s over to you,’ and give us confidence to perform.”
When Stevens was offered a retainer by the Thoroughbred Corporation, Stoute sensed the transition before it was public. As Stevens recalls, “I was heading to play golf with Kieren (Fallon) and others, and Michael called, somehow already knowing. He told me to ask Kieren if he wanted the job.” The offer set Fallon on a path to a successful partnership with Stoute, earning multiple Classic wins in the years to come.
Looking back, Stevens cherishes his time with Stoute, recognising the experience as one that elevated his riding and deepened his love for the sport, leaving him with memories of “the best job any jockey could ever want.”