Smullen set for break after gruelling battle Pat Smullen will go in search of some winter sun before bidding to regain his jockeys' title in 2018. The popular rider has been champion jockey on nine occasions, but after a stirring battle with former champion apprentice Colin Keane, had to admit defeat in this year's title race, with the 23-year-old ending the season 12 winners to the good. Smullen was typically gracious in defeat, but is looking forward to mounting another strong challenge next season. He said: "I'm going to South Africa on Sunday week for a jockeys' challenge. I'll be looking for a few trips in the sun along the way. "I'll be taking a break and freshening up, re-group and start again next year." Smullen rode a total of 88 winners during the 2017 campaign, ending it on a high by partnering Tocco D'Amore to victory in the concluding Finale Stakes at Naas on Sunday.
