Jockey Jack Kennedy says he's pleased to still have the chance to ride the unbeaten Envoi Allen at the upcoming Cheltenham Festival.
Envoi Allen, the current favourite for the Marsh Novices' Chase, was moved to Henry de Bromhead's yard by owners Cheveley Park Stud this week following the Gordon Elliott photo controversy.
De Bromhead has confirmed Kennedy will retain the ride for the race, and he'll also Ballyadam and Quilixios later this month.
"I'm kind of a lucky one, getting to keep the rides on Envoi Allen, Quilixios and Ballyadam," the Kerry rider said on Racing TV this afternoon.
"When you're riding horses like that and you're kind of comfortable that barring an injury you're going to be riding them, and then something like this happens, you're kind of all over the place. I'm delighted that I'm keeping the rides on them."
Kennedy also revealed that he'll be on Minella Indo for the Gold Cup with Rachael Blackmore opting to take the mount of A Plus Tard.
“I was kind of left with no ride in the race and Henry rang me last week and asked if I would ride him.
“It’s brilliant to pick up a spin like that. I was down in Henry’s on Tuesday and popped him over a few fences and got a feel of him.
“I’m really looking forward to the ride. You can forgive a horse a bad run and I’m delighted to have got the ride.”
