Private Harry jockey axed

Ashley Morgan has been axed from the ride on Everest contender Private Harry following the colt’s unplaced run in Saturday’s Group 2 The Shorts (1100m) at Randwick.

The Nathan Doyle-trained entire went into the $1 million race with a perfect five-from-five record and was sent out the $2.15 favourite. But Private Harry stumbled badly at the start, raced outside leader Mazu, and faded to finish fifth, 4.5 lengths behind winner Joliestar.

Connections, including powerhouse part-owner Yulong, opted to remove Morgan, who had partnered Private Harry in all six career starts including his Group 1 Galaxy win earlier this year.

“At the end of the day, we’re on a big stage it’s a business,” said Sean Driver, Director of Kurrinda Bloodstock, on SEN’s Giddy Up.
“The job wasn’t done the way that we needed it to get done… it might seem ruthless, but he’s a colt, he’s going to stand at Yulong. They’ve paid a lot of money for this horse.”

Driver stressed the decision was not personal but about securing the colt’s future value as a stallion.

“It’s unfortunate the decision had to be made, but you’ve got to put emotions aside and focus on the task at hand.”

When asked who would take over, Driver said Yulong would likely turn to “one of their more regular top-line jockeys”, with a replacement expected to be confirmed in coming days.

Despite the disappointment, Driver urged punters to forgive the run.

“He knuckled badly out of the gates… his nose nearly hit the turf. Then he copped a bump, and from there it was game over. He’s in terrific order and we’ve got full confidence in the horse.”

Private Harry will next line up in the Group 2 Premiere Stakes (1200m) at Randwick on October 4 as his final Everest lead-up.

JOLIESTAR ⭐

What an outstanding mare she is! Joliestar wins The Shorts on her way through to The Everest as James McDonald and Chris Waller continue their dominance 🤝 pic.twitter.com/1BZWG8SG6Q

— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) September 20, 2025