Tadhg O’Shea is back in Dubai with renewed energy and familiar ambitions as the 12-time UAE Champion Jockey prepares for his 25th season in the Emirates. After choosing to step away from race riding for much of the summer, the experienced Irishman has returned refreshed, ready to renew his association with Bhupat Seemar and reconnect with some of the horses expected to shape the coming campaign.
For a jockey whose career has been closely tied to the UAE racing circuit, the summer break offered a valuable opportunity to spend time with his family while remaining connected to the sport through work on the farm and involvement in breeding.
“It was probably the first summer that I turned down the opportunity to race ride,” O’Shea said.
He spent much of the break riding out for his brother-in-law and helping on the farm, where the family’s mares and youngstock kept him occupied. Breeding, he explained, has become an increasingly enjoyable part of his life away from the racecourse.
The break also allowed him to devote more time to his two sons, something that can be difficult during the demanding UAE season.
“It was lovely to recharge and reset,” he said, reflecting on the opportunity to spend time with his family before returning to the familiar rhythm of early mornings and race days.
Tadhg O’Shea Continues Partnership with Bhupat Seemar
O’Shea will again be based at Zabeel Stables as stable jockey to champion trainer Bhupat Seemar, continuing a partnership that provided the foundation for much of his success last season.
The 44-year-old rode 46 winners during the previous campaign, finishing second in the jockeys’ championship behind Silvestre de Sousa. With his professional arrangements largely unchanged, he will once again have a strong base from which to pursue another successful season.
“My plans are pretty much the same as last season,” O’Shea said. “I’m stable jockey to Bhupat at Zabeel Stables, which is fantastic. I don’t have any commitments or contracts for the Arabians this season, so will be available to everyone who wants me.”
Despite his impressive record, O’Shea prefers to reserve judgement on the championship picture until the season is well underway. For him, the early months are about establishing momentum, staying healthy and making the most of the opportunities available.
He generally waits until around mid-February before assessing his position in the title race. If he finds himself leading or within striking distance at that stage, the championship becomes a much greater focus.
Until then, his priorities remain straightforward: maintain his fitness, avoid injury and continue riding winners for the trainers who rely on him.
Killer Collect and Tuz Among O’Shea’s Early Interests
Returning to Dubai ahead of the new campaign also gives O’Shea time to reacquaint himself with established performers and assess how the horses have progressed during the break.
One name that continues to command his attention is Killer Collect, who made a strong impression when winning the Jebel Ali Stakes last season. Although the horse had limited opportunities during the campaign, O’Shea believes there is considerable scope for further progress.
Killer Collect remains relatively lightly raced, and the jockey has not ruled out a move into some of Meydan’s major dirt contests this season. His development will be worth following as the programme unfolds.
Another horse O’Shea is particularly keen to partner again is Tuz, the winner of the 2024 Group 1 Dubai Golden Shaheen.
The nine-year-old made only two appearances last season, finishing fourth in the Dubai Golden Shaheen behind Dark Saffron on his latest outing. However, O’Shea remains convinced that the veteran sprinter retains plenty of ability.
“Tuz is a superstar,” he said. “He looks amazing, as strong as a bull, and it’s always a privilege to get the leg up.”
Tuz will turn 10, but O’Shea has been encouraged by his condition and attitude in training. The jockey believes the horse continues to show the enthusiasm and determination that have made him such a respected performer.
His return to action will be one of the notable stories to follow during the coming season, particularly as connections assess the best opportunities for him.
Dubai Racing Carnival Provides the Next Target
O’Shea will be among the familiar faces when the Dubai Racing Carnival begins on 6 November. Having spent nearly a quarter of a century riding in the Emirates, he remains enthusiastic about the quality of the racing and the experience offered by Meydan.
His appreciation for the venue extends beyond the competition itself. The scale of the racecourse, the atmosphere on race days and the standard of the horses all contribute to its appeal.
“Meydan is a place I would urge anyone in the horse industry to visit,” he said. “It truly is a magical place which you really have to see to believe. The crowd, the atmosphere, the racing — it’s all top class.”
For O’Shea, the new campaign brings the familiar challenge of competing at the highest level while maintaining the consistency that has defined his career. With his partnership with Seemar continuing and experienced performers such as Tuz back in his sights, the Irish jockey has plenty to look forward to as he begins another season in Dubai.
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