Frankie Dettori at Down Royal © Photo Healy Racing
Frankie Dettori is enjoying his day in the sunshine at Down Royal where he rides No Thanks in the Ulster Cesarewitch at 5.05 and Evening's Empire in the ten-furlong handicap at 6.40.
The legendary jockey was interviewed in the parade ring after the first race and said: "First time (riding here) - obviously, as you know this is my last year. I tried to reach out to places I haven't been before.
"Barney (Curley) took me to Northern Ireland and I did sightseeing in Enniskillen and Omagh. I think up there today he will be chuckling to himself that I am riding here!
"I like new challenges and this is my farewell tour.
"After I finish with you, I will get changed and walk the track. I have seen it on TV, but there is nothing like walking it to get a bit of an idea and reference points for the races.
"I have got two rides and they are first and second favourites. Let's hope that one can hit the board and give the fans what they want.
"Oh for sure (a flying dismount will be done from a winner) - that's the easy part, I've got to win first! That's what I'm here for, to try and win races.
"Now that I don't have to worry about keeping my job, I am much more relaxed and I guess the horses feel it. I'm getting some good results.
"I've had an amazing career and I'm going to miss it.
"I feel this is the right time to stop at the top. I was watching the World Cup last year and Ronaldo, one of the best players in the world, was on the bench. That could happen to me.
"I've so much to look forward to. I'd like to travel the world a bit - I've seen horses and racecourses, but I haven't seen much else. So some time for me and my wife to explore the world a little bit.
"No time to reflect yet, just keep going!"
