UPS and downs are a constant thread in the life of a jockey. While admired in general for their bravery and skill in that highly dangerous profession, they are nonetheless scrutinised more than any others within the sport.

The top jockeys do well, though they are far from cushioned from criticism. The adage that you are ‘only as good as your last winner’ is closer to the bone for these fearless pilots than for people in most other walks of life.

Given his own background as a successful rider, it was all the more surprising therefore to learn that Jim Culloty had decided to end Davy Russell’s partnership with the Gold Cup winner Lord Windermere, even more so when you consider that the jockey will continue to don the colours of the owner when he rides horses trained by others.

The story gained even more attention due to the fact that Davy Russell suffered serious injuries in a fall at Gowran Park on the same day as the news broke. That unfortunate incident should not cloud the issue at the heart of the story. Did he do something wrong, warranting his removal as Lord Windermere’s rider?

It must be said that there was no substantive backing for the decision made in any of the commentaries I have seen since. That is not to deny the fact that the trainer has the right to use whatever jockey he chooses, and riders are well aware of that. However, it is unusual that such a high-profile jockey is sacked from a successful partnership, and it most usually follows a serious misdemeanour or a personal falling out.

Davy Russell ranks as one of the best riders of his generation and neither this, nor his removal as the retained rider for Gigginstown House last year, diminishes his reputation. Indeed, Michael O’Leary subsequently turned to Russell for his skill at Cheltenham, and to great effect. Such is the regard in which he is held.

The rider’s career continues and the manner in which he has handled this incident reflects well on the man.