Daryl Jacob leaves the saddle with zero regrets after bowing out “perfectly” after his 31st and final Grade One win on Saturday.
The 41-year-old, who has been plagued by injuries in recent months, announced he was calling time on his 25-year-old career after guiding Impaire Et Passe to success in the Faugheen Novice Chase in Limerick.
It was fitting that Jacob would end up wearing the double green of owners Simon Munir and Isaac Suede, who have retained his services for the past 11 years.
“It was the perfect way to end my career,” Jacobs said Sky Sports Racing. “Everyone knew this was going to be my last year but I really wanted to be back from injury in time for Christmas.
“I don’t think I could have done better with Impaire Et Passe, the first grade winner for Simon and Isaac. That was the only thing I wanted this year.
“Going back to Leopardstown, where I’ve had a lot of good days, felt right. I wanted to go out on my terms and do it my way.”
Jacob takes Impaire Et Passe, his 31st and last Grade One winning ride
Jacob’s career includes wins on the biggest stages, including the 2012 Grand National with Neptune Collonges, as well as numerous victories aboard the likes of Bristol De Mai and Sso Royale.
When asked what is the best horse he has ever ridden, Jacob said: “I’ve had so many great days so it’s hard to pick one, but for CV the Grand National is right up there.
“Winning L’Ami Serge in the French Champion Hurdle was a very tough thing and winning Bristol de Mai in the second Betfair Chase when he beat Might Bite and Native River was a huge moment.
“I’ve had 31 Grade One winners, winning the Irish Hennessy, the English Hennessy in the Diamond Harry, the Reeve De Civola in the Long Walk Hurdle, the Sceau Royal won 15 races for me, the wonderful Top Notch- I was very lucky.
Jacob celebrates after winning the Grand National at Neptune Colonges in 2012
“I never thought I would achieve what I have. I can honestly say I’ve never been the most natural of jockeys because everyone knows I’m quite tall, but one thing I’ve done is my heart and soul.
“I emptied the tank, I have absolutely no regrets, I gave everything to the game.
“When you work hard and put your mind to it, I’m pretty sure you can achieve anything you set your mind to.”
