After missing out on Eleven Eleven’s second Magic Millions carnival victory due to COVID restrictions, Keagan Latham is loathe to let another chance pass him by.
Aboard for the horse’s promotion to first in the 2020 Magic Millions Guineas following the disqualification of Alligator Blood, Latham couldn’t get to Queensland to partner him to his subsequent Magic Millions Cup success.
To ensure he doesn’t miss out a second time, the talented jockey has expediated his comeback from injury to reunite with the Greg Hickman-trained gelding in Saturday’s Listed Razor Sharp Handicap (1200m) at Randwick.
Latham was off the scene for four months after suffering serious injuries to his neck, ribs and collar bone in a race day fall at Hawkesbury in August.
He had planned to return just before Christmas but when he found out Eleven Eleven was running, he brought his comeback forward.
“It is one of the main reasons why I have come back a week sooner than what I would have, to get back on him,” Latham said.
“It would be lovely for him to win again this weekend then go up to the Magic Millions for a third year and it would be quite something if he could win it again.”
Latham had been in tremendous form before his fall.
He finished last season on top of the NSW provincial premiership table and rode 101 winners overall.
Having that momentum halted has been one of his biggest frustrations, but he considers himself lucky his injuries weren’t more severe and is intent on getting his form and fitness back to where it was.
“The most annoying part was ruining that momentum and trying to pick up speed again, which we are trying to do over Christmas now,” Latham said.
“But I am just really happy to be back racing.
“You can always count yourself lucky because it can always be a lot worse.”
Latham has enjoyed a great partnership with Eleven Eleven, riding the horse in 14 of his 25 starts and even giving apprentice Tyler Schiller a few tips prior to the gelding’s devastating last-start win in The Warra at Kembla Grange.
If the forecast rain arrives at Randwick, it will only boost Eleven Eleven’s chances but no matter the track conditions, Latham is certain of one thing.
“He is no world beater but when you press a button, he really does go greyhound on you,” he said.
“He pins his ears back, puts his head down and he gives everything that he has.
“I am really looking forward to getting back on him this weekend.”