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Warrnambool hoop Harry Grace has quickly become a trans-Tasman jockey and is set to continue that role when he rides at New Plymouth and Wanganui later this week.
Grace first arrived in New Zealand in September to partner Australian raider Rolls in what was meant to be a Group One mission, and while that campaign hit a few snags, Grace has enjoyed forming relationships with local trainers and has accepted a number of invitations to continue to ride in New Zealand.
"I have been getting good support and I have been riding some nice winners and making some good contacts over here in the Central Districts," Grace said.
"I have been everywhere between Otaki and New Plymouth riding work. I have had some good trainers here supporting me between Lisa Latta, Chrissy Bambry, Allan Sharrock, Janelle Millar, Bill Thurlow, Kelvin Tyler and a number of others.
"I met Kelvin down at Otaki and he has supported me the whole way through. We didn't have any joy down at the Riccarton carnival, but he has continued on with me and hopefully we will have Lightning Jack again soon."
While intent on making the most of his opportunities in New Zealand, Grace has continued to commute across the Tasman where he has maintained his riding engagements back home.
"I still get the rides back home, they are quite happy with what I am doing over here. They are pushing me to get more winners while I can," he said.
"Spring is over back home and there are still some really good races over here to pick-up. I have got a few really nice up-and-coming horses I have been putting work into over here as well."
Grace has already travelled extensively throughout New Zealand and is particularly looking forward to riding at Trentham and Ellerslie over the summer months.
"I have ridden everywhere from Christchurch to Auckland. I quite liked Wellington and Ellerslie," he said.
"I have got a lot lined up over here from December to about February, so I have got to decide how long I am going to stay here."
Grace is looking forward to his book of rides in New Zealand this week, kicking off with New Plymouth on Friday where he has four rides.
"I have got a nice book of rides," he said. "I have had a bit to do with Janelle Millar's (Tiny Diamond) horse at the jumpouts and that is a nice ride, and Allan (Sharrock) has given me two nice chances (Swingit Our Way and Belle Tribute), and I also have one for Bryce Newman (Blue Jeanie)."