Champion jockey Robert Thompson has reflected on his career in racing upon announcing his retirement from the sport.

Ray Hadley hailed the 63-year-old 4400-time winner as “not just a champion jockey but a champion bloke”.

Mr Thompson told Ray the decision to call time on his career came after his ability to travel to Far North Queensland carnivals was restricted.

“I’ve had a wonderful innings – 49 years of it, Ray.

“I was born at the stables mate, I could probably ride a horse before I could walk.”

Ray sought to verify the “urban myth” Mr Thompson rode his horse to the track to win the Cessnock Jungle Juice Cup.

“That is dead set true,” the jockey confirmed.

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