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By Ray Hickson

“Consistency, momentum, relationships” – and riding as many winners as possible - is what apprentice Jean Van Overmeire wants to focus on as he navigates the early stages of yet another comeback from injury.

Jockey Jean Van Overmeire (Pic: Steve Hart).

The 26-year-old, who returned late last month after a nine week absence from a broken shoulder, said he will be concentrating heavily on the provincial area on Saturdays through summer as well as taking opportunities in the city when they present.

And the plum ride on talented mare Strawb in the Hyland Race Colours Handicap (1300m) at Warwick Farm on Wednesday, a heat of the Rising Star series for apprentices, is an opportunity he’s eager to convert.

It’s something of a perfect match in a way, both jockey and horse have been in the wars over the past few months and are in need of the chance to show what they’re made of.

“She’s a nice horse, a lot of people have a big rap on Strawb and I’m just the lucky recipient to be on,’’ Van Overmeire said.

Strawb is easily one of the most talented horses in trainer Nathan Doyle’s care but she’s been a source of frustration in the second half of the year.

After a couple of dynamic wins at Newcastle in the winter, Doyle sent her to Randwick on July 18 and she ran last on a heavy track which she clearly didn’t appreciate.

When she re-emerged at Newcastle’s Hunter meeting last month, yet again as a well supported favourite, the five-year-old reared in stalls so had to be vetted and was passed fit to run but dropped out after racing handy to be beaten eight lengths.

In preparing for the ride on the $2.80 TAB favourite Van Overmeire consulted both Koby Jennings, who rode Strawb that day, and Lee Magorrian, who was on board in her subsequent impressive trial win last week, about what to expect come race day.

“I’ve spoken to a few people about her, obviously I’ve never ridden her, and everyone’s opinion is very consistent,’’ he said.

“So I’ll be following the advice, she’s a pretty quirky horse to ride. I’ve got to get her out and keep her comfortable. We’ve drawn six and we should be able to get the run of the race.

“I’m hoping she can be my first winner back.”

Van Overmeire started 2020 on the sidelines following a fractured shoulder and broken wrist in a barrier trial fall at Rosehill in December last year. That was only a few months after another freak accident which resulted in an ankle injury.

So with injuries costing him about eight of the 12 months of 2019 as well he can only hope luck goes his way from now on but says he’s learned a lot from the extended time off.

“I’m probably better mentally from the experience, it teaches me to be tougher,’’ he said.

Strawb wins a trial at Newcastle on December 3

“I find that the difference from the first time I got injured until now is chalk and cheese.

“Now I see it’s just one of those things and there’s nothing I can do about it but go back to the first time and I’d just be kicking the cat the whole time.

“We all need luck, that’s what the game is about, and sooner or later it always happens.

“I’ve had some misfortune but at the same time I consider myself lucky because I’m able to come back riding.

“I want consistency, momentum, and to build relationships. That’s the aim for me for the rest of the season, at least for the next four or five months.”

All the fields, form and replays for Wednesday’s Warwick Farm meeting