Kildare jockey Robbie Dolan was reduced to tears after claiming his first grade one victory when Profondo came home in the Spring Champion Stakes at Randwick in Sydney.
Having won five times previously for Adrian Keatley, Dolan decided to swap the Curragh for Australia five years ago to pursue his dream of advancing in the sport.
Profondo, trained by Richard Litt, ensured that the jockey took a big step forward in his career as it claimed victory from Never Been Kissed and Alegron in the feature race at the meet. Never Been Kissed had led the way for a large portion of the race, but Profondo was second throughout and won with two lengths to spare.
"I don't know what to say, I can’t believe it," an emotional Dolan told 7HorseRacing afterwards.
"First of all, thanks to the owners for keeping me on the horse tonight, they could have put anyone on him.
"I came here five years ago with a schoolbag on my back, just trying to ride a few winners. I don't know what to say."
Dolan said that the victory would spark some celebrations back in Kildare town.
"My dad sits up and watches every race I ride in. It doesn’t matter if it’s bloody out in the country or in the city, he watches it.
"He’s up there probably having a cup of tea now. I’d say the neighbours will know I rode a winner."
"I came here five years ago with a school bag on my back."
— 7HorseRacing 🐎 (@7horseracing) October 9, 2021
Irishman @ZRKD is moved to tears after claiming his first Group 1. @lizziejelfs pic.twitter.com/nmOG4EPzqL
