Brendan Powell excited to begin Irish summer stint at Ballinrobe on Tuesday

Cheltenham Festival-winning jockey Brendan Powell is relishing the chance to establish contacts in Ireland, with the 24-year-old set to begin a summer stint across the Irish Sea at Ballinrobe on Tuesday.

Powell is following in the footsteps of his father Brendan, who earlier this year joined Joseph O'Brien's Owning Hill operation to fulfil a multi-purpose role, which sees him regularly represent the stable on track.

Powell jnr, who partnered Golden Chieftain to JLT Specialty Handicap Chase glory at the 2013 festival, is now looking forward to sampling Irish racing, having ridden there on three previous occasions.

Speaking on Monday, Powell told the Racing Post: "I've been picking up bits and bobs through the summer in England but a lot of the trainers I ride for wouldn't have many runners through the summer.

"I thought this would be a good opportunity to come over and see dad – I haven't seen him since he's moved over to Joseph's – and to form some new contacts.

2018 Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Native River recorded his first five victories under Brendan PowellCredit: Edward Whitaker

"In the future, if the opportunity arose to pick up a few rides in Ireland, it would be something I'd consider."

Powell has two rides for Galway-based trainer Steve Mahon at Ballinrobe on Tuesday aboard Kilcolgan Rocket (7.00) and Castlehume (8.00).

Powell, who is set to be represented by Ken Whelan while in Ireland, added: "Last season I had plenty of rides, probably not as many winners as I would have hoped, but I made a few new contacts and I'll try to give it another go in England.

"I've always loved watching Irish racing and even if some Irish trainers have runners in England, I'd love to get the call up.

"I'll be riding out mostly in Joseph's but I'll try to get myself into other yards to see how different trainers operate. I do that in England with an eye to the future, should I begin training myself."

Ballinrobe card

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