Chris Johnson sure had a good strike rate but most of his riding was done
in the Sth Is. I wonder if it would be different racing up here.Over a short
period he had a better strike rate than L. O.
Brilliant, naturally gifted riders can win
anywhere -- he has won three Oaks, a Railway-Telegraph double, and a
premiership with 140 wins. That's good enough :-)
I've never seen another NZ rider with his
balance and ability to get the last effort out of a seemingly
beaten animal. His ride to win aboard LOADER at Te Rapa on 9 Dec
1995 is my all-time favourite effort.
Sure he's a flawed genius who had problems
off the track, but as a punter I don't give a hoot. I'm just hoping he
can perform to his best at age 41. I doubt it'll be an easy task
but he is fit although weighing 57kg currently. NZ racing needs
him!
Apparently he's going to ride a few of the horses
he trains, but I doubt it'll be long before other trainers snap him up.
If I were an owner I'd be ringing him now :-o
Regards
Neil F
