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John Cullen retires from the saddle

John CullenJohn Cullen
© Photo Healy Racing

John Cullen has announced his retirement as a jockey at Galway this afternoon to concentrate on a training career.

Cullen (38) had a number of career highlights at Ballybrit including two Galway Hurdles on the Paul Nolan-trained pair Say Again (2002) and Cloone River (2004).

Grade 1 winners over a lengthy career include two victories in the Durkan New Homes Novice Chase at the Leopardstown Christmas meeting on Mariah Rollins and Follow The Plan, while a successful association with the late Oliver Brady included two Grade 2 wins on Maralan.

Cullen said, "I've been thinking about it for a while, and really just made my mind up today. It's been hard to get rides the past few years and my weight has been a struggle. If I could ride until I'm 60 it would be great but you just have to say enough is enough.

"I've got a new job with Joey Logan on the Curragh training point-to-pointers for him and a few of my own. I've something to look forward to so hopefully I can make a good go of that.

"My wife Anne-Marie has been worried about me for a while and is relieved that I've made the decision myself.

"I'd like to thank all the owners and trainers who let me ride for them over the years, and I'd a great time doing it."

About Alan Magee
Alan has worked in the racing industry for well over 30 years including with the Sporting Life, Turform and Irish Racing Services. He took up his current role as Irish Racing Team Leader with the Press Association in 2013. He has a keen interest in most sports and plays golf.