Top jockey Jay Ford will have his first ride in five months at Hawkesbury today since being sidelined after a shoulder reconstruction.

Jay Ford, who is best known for his affiliation with racing champion Takeover Target, will ride unbeaten filly Luche Libre in the Listed Hawkesbury Guineas later today.

The jockey is thrilled to have the opportunity to get back in the saddle after such a long break from riding.

“It was pretty difficult not being part of the autumn carnival,” said Ford.

“I tried not to just sit around and be glued in front of the TV watching it because that would have made it even more difficult.

“But watching some of the good races only made me work harder with my physio and at the gym to get back as soon as I could. It made me hungry to get back riding again.”

Ford injured his shoulder after an incident at a barrier trial in late November last year and underwent surgery soon after.

“All up it took about five months to get back,” Ford said.

“After being on the sidelines for so long it’s definitely good to be back in the saddle, I’ve ridden a couple of winners already, and it’s good to secure a nice book of rides so soon.”

The jockey is confident about Luche Libre’s chances in today’s big race.

“She’s a very nice horse with a lot of potential and she’s still on an upward spiral,” Ford said yesterday.

“In both starts she has been impressive, but she is still learning and still doing a few things wrong.

“She has drawn a beautiful gate (three) and I should be able to give her every chance tomorrow.”