Young jockey Zac Lloyd is poised for a significant opportunity this Saturday as he rides Linebacker in the prestigious $10 million Golden Eagle at Royal Randwick. The race features a competitive field, headlined by unbeaten star Autumn Glow and renowned jockey James McDonald. The Golden Eagle, which spans 1,500 meters, is Australia’s second-richest race, and a victory would mark a career milestone for the 22-year-old.
Lloyd, a two-time champion apprentice from Sydney and a three-time Group 1 winner, has shown unwavering confidence throughout his career. With Linebacker, trained by John O’Shea and Tom Charlton, Lloyd is eager to build on his recent successes, including a treble on Everest Day and four wins at Rosehill the previous week. Linebacker, a dominant winner of the Silver Eagle, is currently a $6 chance, trailing only Autumn Glow, who is favored at $1.90.
Confidence and Experience Propel Lloyd
“I’ve thrown a couple of good weekends together on some big days, so I think I’m riding really well,” said Lloyd. “It’ll be good to bring that form into Saturday because it is the most important day of the year for me.” He expressed pride in riding Linebacker, a horse he believes has the potential to excel. Lloyd’s recent performances have elevated his career total to over 220 New South Wales city winners in just over three seasons, marking one of the most successful apprenticeships in Sydney racing in over four decades.
Despite his rapid ascent, the journey has not been without challenges. Since relocating from Queensland for the 2022-23 season, Lloyd has faced scrutiny and spent considerable time in the stewards’ room, returning from a suspension ahead of this weekend’s race. Nevertheless, his talent remains undisputed. “I’ve always thought I could establish myself in Sydney,” he stated, emphasizing his determination to compete with top riders like James McDonald and Tommy Berry.
Linebacker’s Potential and Race Strategy
Lloyd’s confidence is further buoyed by Linebacker’s impressive form. The gelding, who was adjusted before his three-year-old campaign, won the Randwick Guineas in his first Group 1 race with Lloyd aboard. “He’s proved it in Group 1s that he’s a very good horse,” Lloyd noted. “He probably hasn’t shown everyone his true potential yet, but hopefully on Saturday, he can.”
A victory in the Golden Eagle would not only enhance Lloyd’s standing in the racing community but also serve as redemption after narrowly missing out last year, when his mount Stefi Magnetica was blocked in the final stretch. Linebacker’s recent win in the Silver Eagle showcased his capabilities, and Lloyd expressed optimism about the horse’s performance despite a previous minor leg injury that altered their initial plans.
“Winning the Golden Eagle would be a step in the right direction,” said Lloyd, who has previously ridden Autumn Glow in a trial. He acknowledged the mare’s impressive record of seven wins, including the Group 1 Epsom Handicap. “Both horses have drawn well, so it shapes to be a race where the best horse will win with the best ride.”
As the anticipation builds for Saturday’s race, the stakes are high for Lloyd and Linebacker. With the potential for a significant career milestone on the line, all eyes will be on the pair as they compete among Australia’s elite.
