Dual licence jumps jockey and trainer Richard Cully announced his retirement as a jumps jockey after his last ride at Terang yesterday.

"It is with a very heavy heart and very mixed emotions that I am retiring from race riding," Cully said.

Moving into the profession of full time horse training, Cully will focus on training jumpers from his stables at Ballarat Turf Club. Jumper, Wazuzu, is currently in work who will be racing very shortly along with NZ prospects, with shares available arriving on Aussie turf before the 2020 jumps season.

Richard Cully's Australian riding career started when he left Ireland for Australia in 2005. He has ridden for many successful trainers since.

"I never dreamed I would have ridden the horses I have ridden and ended up where I have. I have to thank Ciaron Maher and Patrick Payne who have both given me fantastic support since I landed on Victorian shores."

His most famous horse to date, Champion 'Wells' trained by Kath and Craig Durden, Cully mentions is one of his most memorable moments.

(photo credit: Racing Photos)

"Wells winning the grand national in 2016 was a real standout for me, getting through that bottomless track showed how big of a heart he had."

Other wins include two grand annuals for Patrick Payne on Chapparo and No Song No Supper.

The great northern chase in NZ was also a memorable moment winning on Jack Romanov in 2015.

"With Jumps Racing in its most progressive and positive position to date, I will take great pleasure in being a supporter and spectator from the other side of the fence. Thanks for the wonderful memories, I’ve had an absolute blast."

For those who are interested in becoming a jumps jockey please contact:

Inez Musgrove: [email protected]

Matt Hyland: [email protected]

(photo credit: Racing Photos)