Hills lauds Shoemark's work ethic after jockey wins on return from drugs ban

Charlie Hills has labelled Kieran Shoemark "a key member of the team" after the pair teamed up on Saturday to win on the jockey's first ride since serving a six-month drugs ban.

The victory, achieved with Heroic at Lingfield, provided immediate vindication for Hills' decision to support Shoemark.

Hills, who also gave Shoemark two rides at Nottingham on Sunday, said: "There was an opportunity for Kieran to come in back in February and he has been in every morning riding four lots. He's worked really hard and is obviously a very talented jockey.

"He's been real breath of fresh air and gets on with the horses and everyone in the yard really well. He has become a key member of the team already really."

Kieran Shoemark: made a winning return to action on Lingfield on SaturdayCredit: Mark Cranham

Prior to his suspension for a positive test in November last year, the Royal Ascot-winning rider – formerly stable jockey to Roger Charlton – had only ridden for the Hills on three occasions.

Hills added: "I hadn't really used Kieran before this and it's nice to have something of a clean slate really.

"His agent Bony [Tony Hind] mentioned it to us during his time away and it's great to be able to give someone another chance."

Hills has himself enjoyed an excellent start to the Flat season, with his 28 winners headlined by the success of Phoenix Of Spain in the Irish 2,000 Guineas last month.

He said: "He seems like he's very much back to normal now. He's dedicated himself really well over the last two months and he's looking forward now to a fresh start. It's something to really look forward to."

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