Sport
12 November, 2024
Mount Isa jockey Keith Ballard farewelled at home track
There was no fairytale finish at Buchanan Park on Monday.
Kieth Ballard didn’t need to add to his winning tally on Monday to get the farewell he deserved.
In what was supposed to be his last race meeting at Buchanan Park – we’ll get to that shortly – a good gathering cheered the 71-year-old as he returned to the mounting yard for the last time.
Since “KB” gave North West Weekly the news of his retirement date, the Hall of Fame jockey has been on a farewell tour of sorts.
He got a fairytale win in the last at Cloncurry on Derby Day, but a final winner on his home track was beyond him.
As it turns out, Ballard could get another crack this Saturday.
At the time of writing, the Julia Creek track was looking dicey to race, meaning the Cup meeting set down for Saturday could be shifted to Buchanan Park.
Mount Isa Race Club president Jay Morris said he was on standby in case the meeting is transferred.
Even if Ballard has or hasn’t ridden his last race on home soil, he walks away having achieved everything he possibly could in the saddle.
This was recognised by his peers as the jockeys formed a guard of honour for the veteran hoop prior to the last race on Monday.
And while he finished seventh, the crowd roared as he came back into the enclosure.
Minutes later, a presentation ceremony was held on the lawn as KB was presented with life membership of the Queensland Jockeys Association.
Ballard thanked the crowd, the club and his family as he waved goodbye, although he acknowledged he’d still be seen at the races next year, albeit in a different capacity.
Regardless of where the races are held this Saturday, it will be the final time the legendary hoop competes in a race.
“I think the time is right. I will miss it but it’s better to go on your own terms,” Ballard said.
“I owe a lot to racing and I’m very humbled by the attention that has come my way in the last few weeks."
