James McDonald To Be Retained By Godolphin

James McDonald has signed as a contracted jockey to Godolphin just as the Autumn Carnivals in Sydney and Melbourne step up a gear.

McDonald has long been riding No 1 for Godolphin trainer John O'Shea but the significance of the move is that it ties the jockey to Team Godolphin officially and gives the stable first call on his services internationally.

"We felt the time was right to formalise our arrangement with James," John Ferguson, Bloodstock Adviser to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, said today.

"He is a first class jockey, as we all know, but having him under retainer gives us the opportunity to use him not just in Australia but in Europe, as well.

"We would like him to join William Buick and James Doyle later in the year when the Derby trials are run in May and Epsom and Royal Ascot take place in June.

"There is a two month window available away from the Australian scene that could be used to great advantage for both parties," he added.

McDonald recently partnered Contributer to victory in the Chipping Norton Stakes, O'Shea's first Group One winner for Godolphin.

"I am delighted to have signed for Godolphin, not only in order to continue our great association in Australia, but also for the opportunity to ride for the stable for a short time in Britain when commitments allow.

"I am very thankful to Sheikh Mohammed for the chance to further my career in this direction," McDonald added.