GO, Dazzler!
My old pal Darryll Holland is on the move and about to make history by training in Mauritius.
The Mauritius Turf Club recently made an application to the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) for a stable licence for Holland to be ready for action for the 2026 racing season.
The MTC believe Holland ‘brings valuable experience and insight to our racing community’.
Holland, whose Harraton Court Stables in Newmarket is up for sale, has trained nearly 100 winners in the UK having retired from a top class international race-riding career that ended at Woodbine, Toronto, in 2020.
He could easily be considered one of the best never to have been champion.
At home he started out with his first victory – Sinclair Boy, trained by the late Barry Hills – in 1990 and his most successful season was in 2003 when he rode 157 winners and amassed over £3.2million in prize money.
I was booking rides for Holland then, and he was lucky enough to grab the brilliant Falbrav who banged in the Coral Eclipse, Juddmonte International and Queen Elizabeth II Stakes.
He was narrowly denied Derby glory on Dragon Dancer in 2006.
I also took Holland to Mauritius many years ago when I had the role of booking riders for the island’s famous International Meeting.
It was at a time when I also secured the first visit to Mauritius of Frankie Dettori.
Holland told me: “I am pleased to confirm that I intend to establish Darryll Holland Stables in Mauritius and to play an active role in the continued evolution of horse racing at Champ de Mars — one of the world’s oldest and most iconic racecourses, rich in history, tradition and sporting excellence.
“Mauritius has played a significant and enduring role in my professional journey. Over a total period of approximately seven years, I had the privilege of riding and working on the island.
“During that time, I was fortunate to work alongside some of Mauritius’s most respected trainers, including Gujadhur, Allet and Maingard.
“These experiences greatly enhanced my understanding of racehorse preparation, adaptability and the unique demands of racing at Champ de Mars.”
Holland added: “I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the owners who have placed their trust in me throughout my training journey in the United Kingdom, and to the exceptional team of staff whose dedication, skill and quiet commitment make everything possible behind the scenes.
“Their belief, loyalty and shared passion for the horses have been the driving force behind the stable’s progress, and I am deeply appreciative of the support and encouragement they continue to show.
“Racing is never an individual pursuit, and I carry forward their values, work ethic and spirit with immense pride as I begin this new chapter in Mauritius.”
Holland started his British training career with a winner when Lilkian won at Kempton on 9 April 2021.
He finished off in the UK with a victory as well thanks to Jack Andrea who scored at Lingfield on 12 February of this year.
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