South African rider Steyn joins Lyons team

South African jockey Keanen Steyn has joined Ger Lyons and will be one of the trainer’s riding team for the rest of the season.

From Cape Town, the 30-year-old has ridden more than 300 winners, split between South Africa and India, where he rode for four seasons.

Steyn said yesterday: “I’ve ridden a Group 2 winner in India and also many Listed race winners. I arrived in Ireland early last week and I’m looking forward to my time here.”

Colm O’Donoghue was the link in Steyn deciding to try his luck in Ireland. “I got to know Colm when we were riding in India and we became big mates.

Ger Lyons: 'Naas have done a lot of work at the track down through the years and in time they deserve a big race.'Credit: Patrick McCann

"When my contract there was coming to an end, I told him I was thinking of going back to South Africa and he advised me against it and said I should travel and explore to get more international experience.

“He got back to me and put me in touch with Ger. I also spoke to Keagan Latham, who was in the South African Jockey Academy with me in Cape Town. Keagan spent a few years with Ger and he told me I couldn’t go wrong by going there.”

Latham, who is now based in Australia, spent four seasons (2008 - 2011) with Lyons and rode more than 100 winners during his stint in Ireland.

“I’m able to do 8st 4lb and that should help getting rides. I’ve had a couple for other trainers since I got here and I’m hoping to ride at the Curragh this weekend, “Steyn said