BRITAIN’s William Whitaker has lost the ride on the horses owned by Rushy Marsh Farm. It is believed the horses will now be sold.

Whitaker took over the rides of a number of top horses from Ireland’s Denis Lynch 12 months ago. Announcing the news, Whitaker said: “My cooperation with Rushy Marsh Farm has come to an end. I look forward to the next chapter in my career and building up a strong team of horses, owners and partners.”

Frank McCourt co-founded the Global Champions League with Jan Tops in 2016 and was, until just last month, co-owner of the GCT and GCL. His Miami Celtics team last season consisted of Irish riders Michael Duffy, Shane Breen and Cameron Hanley, as well as Whitaker and USA’s Jessica Springsteen who also rides a number of horses for the McCourt family.

Whitaker’s string of top horses included the 12-year-old championship hopeful RMF Cadeau De Muze. The 30-year-old is now back in England where he will run a yard with his brother James. Whitaker told Horse & Hound that the news came out of the blue. “It came as a surprise as the horses have been in such good form, but it was a great opportunity to ride for them,” he said.

Former British show jumper Helena Stormanns, who managed the RMF horses commented online, saying: “Sadly the Miami Celtics team has been disbanded and the RMF horses are for sale, the situation has changed within the GC causing this sudden change of direction. I wish William all the luck in the world and I can highly recommend him to any owner.”