More than a decade after his first appearance in the Durban July, Australian-based jockey Chad Schofield is set to return to South Africa's premier race with a chance to fulfil an ambition that carries both personal and family significance.

Speaking to SAHorseracing.COM, Schofield reflected on his return to the race after being booked to ride King Pelles for Gareth van Zyl. The booking came after an opening in jockey arrangements allowed for the internationally accomplished rider to return to Greyville.

While much of Schofield's career has been built abroad, Durban remains home. Born and raised in the city, he admitted the opportunity to return for the country's biggest race is one he has eagerly anticipated.

"I'm very excited. I haven't been to Durban since I came to ride The Conglomerate as a 3 yo, so it's been a long time," Schofield told SAHorseracing.COM. "I was born and raised in Durban, so I'm very excited to get back."

The 31-year-old has enjoyed success at the highest level internationally, including victory aboard Shamus Award in the 2013 Cox Plate and a productive seven-season stint in Hong Kong where he rode more than 200 winners. Yet the Durban July remains a race that holds a unique place in his ambitions.

A Race That Matters

For Schofield, the appeal of the Durban July extends beyond its status as South Africa's most prestigious race. It is also a race deeply woven into the history of his family.

"For me, it's a very prestigious race and it would mean so much if I was able to win it," he said. "That's why I'm so keen to come back and try and achieve that."

One of the more significant aspects of his return is the opportunity to chase a prize that eluded his father, former champion jockey Glyn Schofield.

Schofield acknowledged that fact has not been forgotten within the family.

"It's a very famous race in South Africa and it's a race that my dad wasn't able to win. Hopefully I can do it for both of us and I'm sure it would be a very special moment if I'm able to do it."

The comment is particularly significant given the standing of the Durban July within South African racing. Winning the race would not only represent a major career achievement for Schofield, but also complete a family objective that has remained out of reach.

Studying King Pelles

Although he has yet to speak in detail with the horse's connections, Schofield said he has already spent considerable time reviewing King Pelles' form and preparation.

He believes the gelding appears to be building toward a peak effort in the July.

"I've watched his whole career and I think he's prepping really well for the race," Schofield said. "It's clear they've been trying to keep him nice and sharp at the distance."

With several weeks still remaining before race day, he feels he has already developed a solid understanding of the horse's profile.

"I'm already well rehearsed on the horse's form and what kind of horse he is. I'm as prepared as I can be at this stage."

Preparing For The Trip Home

Schofield has not yet finalised his travel arrangements but intends arriving in South Africa several days before the race to allow sufficient time to settle after the long journey from Australia.

"I'd like to be there at least a few days before the race just to feel settled in and be in the best shape I can be."

He is also exploring the possibility of securing additional rides on the card, although no further engagements had been confirmed at the time of speaking.

The Durban July regularly attracts some of the strongest riding talent available, but few jockeys arriving at Greyville this year will carry a connection to the race quite like Schofield. For a rider returning to the city where he was born and raised, the opportunity extends beyond another major race ride.

On July 4, Schofield will have the chance to chase a victory that has long held special meaning for both himself and his family.