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Richard Johnson: 'It was hard to stomach losing the ride - a bit of a shock'
Lewis Porteous talks to the recently retired four-time champion jockey
Have there been any regrets since announcing your retirement in April?
I'm definitely happy with my decision. It was always a big worry that I'd be driving home thinking I shouldn't have done it but that's not been the case. For me it was the right thing at the right time. I was very lucky to have a successful career and I got to 43 years old which was a lot longer than I ever expected. I'm very grateful for everything I achieved and I really had a fantastic time.
What did it feel like making that announcement to the world?
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Published on inInterviews
Last updated
Copy- 'You can see why people end up struggling - when you're trying to pay the electric bill, losing one ride can be massive'
- 'I've never paid six figures for a horse and never will - I learned pretty quickly you're only one phone call away from f*** all'
- 'I’ve trained some fabulous horses, worked with some excellent riders - maybe I have brought a little bit of talent to the table as well'
- ‘When you’re in the moment and you’re starved, you’re ready to explode - everything built up and I just lost my s**t’
- 'He must have his breakfast earlier than Willie does' - Patrick Mullins goes behind enemy lines at Gordon Elliott's yard
- 'You can see why people end up struggling - when you're trying to pay the electric bill, losing one ride can be massive'
- 'I've never paid six figures for a horse and never will - I learned pretty quickly you're only one phone call away from f*** all'
- 'I’ve trained some fabulous horses, worked with some excellent riders - maybe I have brought a little bit of talent to the table as well'
- ‘When you’re in the moment and you’re starved, you’re ready to explode - everything built up and I just lost my s**t’
- 'He must have his breakfast earlier than Willie does' - Patrick Mullins goes behind enemy lines at Gordon Elliott's yard