Randwick double sees Tom Marquand make big impression down under

Tom Marquand earned plenty of plaudits after riding the first winners of his six-week stint in Australia when landing a double at Randwick on Saturday.

Marquand, who is based with John O'Shea during his time in Sydney, struck on the Coolmore-owned Movie Role for the David and Ben Hayes and Tom Dabernig stable in the 5f handicap, and Live And Free for O'Shea in the 1m1f handicap.

Movie Role was Marquand's first winner for Coolmore, and after he delivered Live And Free late to claim victory, an obviously impressed O'Shea said: "Tom's really announced himself today as what a quality rider he is. We're honoured to have him riding for us. If he keeps riding like that he'll have no trouble getting rides."

Tom Marquand and Movie Role score at RandwickCredit: Mark Evans (Getty Images)

Dara O'Meachair, representing the Hayes/Dabernig stable, said after Movie Role's victory: "Tom gave her a beautiful ride. He was champion apprentice in England a few seasons ago and is a really talented young guy. He was out with us three years ago and he's come back this summer and is obviously riding in great form."

Marquand, who is attached to the Richard Hannon stable and had his best season in Britain when riding 105 winners this year, said: "It's nice to ride a winner for John on one of my first full days of riding here, bringing up a double on the day."

Marquand's previous trip to Australia in January 2016 saw him ride two winners from ten rides when he was based with David Hayes.

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