Ryan Moore gives verdict on teenage son Toby's jockey debut for Godolphin at Kempton

Ryan Moore has given his verdict ahead of teenage son Toby’s debut as a jockey on Friday. Toby Moore, 17, an apprentice rider who works for top trainer Charlie Appleby, will become the latest from the Moore family dynasty to enter the sport when he rides in the 4.05 at Kempton Park.

Father Ryan is one of three successful jockey sons of trainer Gary Moore. His brothers Jamie and Josh, both now retired from the saddle, were jump jockeys. Their sister Hayley Moore is a presenter for Sky Sports Racing.

Toby Moore made the move towards following in his father’s footsteps by becoming a professional jockey over the winter when he got a job with Appleby in Newmarket.

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On Friday he is set to get his first chance to ride in a race in public with his debut mount in the Unibet 3 Uniboosts A Day Fillies’ Novice Stakes over 6f at Kempton Park.

He will partner Godolphin Valdorcia, a once-raced daughter of Oasis Dream who finished third on her only previous start when ridden by William Buick at the same track in September, who will carry 7lb less weight due to Toby’s apprentice allowance.

He will make his appearance while Ryan Moore, the world’s number one rider and stable jockey to Aidan O’Brien, is sidelined by injury. Ryan has not ridden since August when it was disclosed that he had suffered a fractured femur.

Toby has come through the pony racing ranks and was a regular participant in the Shetland Pony Grand National, one of the features of the annual London International Horse Show, and competed in the showjumping events.

In May this year he gained racecourse experience when he rode work for Appleby up Newmarket’s Rowley Mile racecourse alongside his Dad.

“He rode out for me and he was very capable then,” said the teenager’s grandfather, Gary, whose father Charlie began the family tradition when taking out a permit to train in 1961.

“He’s been nurtured by Charlie since, and he’s grown and got stronger over the last six months. It’s very exciting, especially riding in those colours, and I just hope he has an enjoyable day.”

Ryan Moore addressed his son’s debut in his World Pool blog and said: “Away from Newmarket, my son Toby has his first ride today (4:05pm, Kempton). He’s ready for it and is very much looking forward to it.

“He’s lucky to have been given a ride by Charlie [Appleby] and hopefully it all goes well and he enjoys it.”