Foley and Halford bring successful 12-year association to an end

Group 1-winning trainer Michael Halford has decided to reshuffle his riding arrangements and has parted ways with Shane Foley, who has been based with the Curragh handler since he graduated from RACE in 2005.

Foley, a native of County Kilkenny, won his first Classic just over a year ago when he guided the Adrian Keatley-trained Jet Setting to a memorable victory over Minding in the Irish 1,000 Guineas.

Halford and Foley teamed up to win the Group 3 Athasi Stakes at Naas back in May with Rehana and have enjoyed 17 winners together this year.

Rehana and Shane Foley win the Athasi StakesCredit: Patrick McCann

There will be no stable jockey at Copper Beech Stables, with Halford planning to use the best available for the immediate future at least.

In a statement released by the trainer on his website, he said: "There has been no falling out. We've just decided that Shane won't be our automatic first choice and I'll be using the best available for the remainder of the season. I've spoken to all of my owners and they are happy to go along with that.

"Shane has been a great asset to us here and we've had some great days and I'd like to thank him and wish him well for the future."

Foley admitted his disappointment upon learning the news on Thursday evening and said: “I have had a great run with Michael and I've ridden for him for over ten years, but we had a chat last night, and while I am disappointed, there are loads of lads out there a lot worse off than me.

“I hope to continue to ride for Michael when available and I'll be going freelance for the remainder of the season. I'd like to thank Michael and his owners for their support and I'm sure that we'll enjoy more success in the future.”