News
Jim knows it is time New
Date: 17-Apr-2026
ASKED about his first memories of riding at Ipswich racetrack all those years ago, Jim Byrne recalled his admiration for legendary jockey Mick Pelling.
Looking back on his early days coming to Ipswich as a young apprentice, Jim fondly recalled trawling through his collection of video cassettes before each race meeting.
“But it was very much watching Pelling, who I idolised. I thought he was amazing,” Jim said.
After 35 years in the saddle, Jim has retired from a sport he’s lived and breathed since he was 15.
He plans to keep busy with his saddlery business. He’s also president of the Queensland Jockeys Association.
He said jockeys were in a much better position than when he started riding but fatigue remained a major issue.
Read more about Jim Byrne and his feelings about retiring in Ipswich Tribune Today.
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