Fallon cuts short US riding stint

Kieren Fallon is due back in Britain today after apparently deciding to cut short his riding adventure in the US.

The former six-times champion jockey was expected to compete at Gulfstream Park in Florida until the middle of next month but has suffered a change of heart.

Fallon, who has been based in Florida since Boxing Day was originally enthusiastic about working and living in the US, especially after he rode three winners from his first three mounts. But on a three-day return visit to Britain last month he admitted that he was unhappy with the dirt track at Gulfstream and wanted to ride only on the turf course.

It now emerges that his disenchantment has been extended to the turf. Speaking to the Racing Post, his US agent Terry Miller, said: "He doesn't like the fast ground - Kieren thinks the turf course is too hard. It is a fact that track records are broken virtually every day."

Miller added: "It's a shame. He's such a nice guy and a great rider, I wish he could have stayed longer."

Fallon is contracted to ride for Newmarketbased trainer Sir Michael Stoute although he has been linked with the vacant job at Aidan O'Brien's Ballydoyle yard.