Refreshed Pat Dobbs raring to go after cutting season short in Britain

Rayya wins the UAE Oaks by three and three-quarter lengths after making all under Pat Dobbs

Rayya's win in the 2018 UAE Oaks was one of four Group-race victories for Pat Dobbs and Doug WatsonCredit: Dubai Racing Club // Andrew Watkins

Pat Dobbs and trainer Doug Watson combined for four Group-race victories last winter and the jockey will have plenty of motivation going into the season-opening meeting at Jebel Ali on Friday.

With opportunities dwindling, Dobbs elected to draw stumps in Britain at the beginning of September to allow himself a chance to refresh and refocus for the up-and-coming Emirates campaign.

He said: "I had a fall and hurt my wrist and then I came back for two days but I decided to take an extended break. I don't usually get a break going from the UK to here, it's normally all year round.

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Scott BurtonFrance correspondent

Published on 25 October 2018inInternational

Last updated 18:24, 26 October 2018

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