Zac Lloyd’s pursuit of the Durban July carries an added layer of significance. The son of former champion jockey Jeff Lloyd is set to ride in South Africa’s premier race on July 4, offering him an opportunity to succeed where his father narrowly missed out, with the Durban July remaining one of the few major prizes absent from Jeff Lloyd’s distinguished career. Before turning his attention to Greyville, however, the young Australian has made an immediate impact during his working tour of Britain.

The 22-year-old, already a multiple Group 1-winning rider in Australia, rode a double at Doncaster on Saturday after going winless from two rides at the same venue a day earlier.

Lloyd partnered the Michael Bell-trained Any Which Way to victory in a 2921-metre Class 2 Handicap before completing a double aboard Arctic Dawn for Daniel and Claire Kubler in a 1413-metre Class 3 Handicap.

The victories came during a month-long stay in England, where Lloyd is based with Billy and David Egan. His schedule includes riding work two days a week for George Boughey, two days for Charlie Appleby and one day for William Haggas.

Royal Ascot Next

The young Australian is due to ride at Royal Ascot later this month, a meeting he regards as the sport’s most prestigious stage.

Speaking about the opportunity, Lloyd made clear the significance of competing at the famous Berkshire fixture.

“Royal Ascot is a dream come true and, in my eyes, it’s the most prestigious meeting in the world. I’m very excited to compete there,” he told Racing Post.

Lloyd said he is content to take whichever opportunities arise during the meeting.

“I’m just going with the flow and am happy to ride whatever they’d like me to. I’m very good friends with Billy Loughnane and, obviously, he’s George’s main rider. Whatever they decide is best for me, I’ll just do my best.”

July On The Horizon

Following Royal Ascot, Lloyd will travel to South Africa for the Durban July at Greyville on July 4.

Among the horses mentioned as potential rides for Lloyd are See It Again, Legal Counsel, Native Ruler, Note To Self and Happy Verse. The lightweight hoop rides at any weight which helps. 

With victories already on the board in Britain, Lloyd’s international itinerary now moves toward two of racing’s most prominent events, beginning with Royal Ascot before the focus shifts to Greyville.

Image of Zac, Nicola and Jeff Racing NSW