After five years away, the champion jockey is back and aiming for the Duchess.

The Gujadhur Stable is preparing a full display tomorrow morning for the barrier trials with its star jockey, Manoel Nunes, back in the saddle. He received the green light from the Gambling Regulatory Authority, officially marking his long-awaited return to the Field of Mars.

It's a remarkable comeback for the Brazilian rider, who last rode in Mauritius during the 2019 season. That year, he dominated the turf, claiming the Champion Jockey title under the colours of Shyam Hurchund Stables, with an impressive tally of 43 wins from 145 rides.

His legendary partnership with the crack White River, trained by Rameshwar Gujadhur, left a lasting impression. Together, they secured a historic hat-trick in the Barbe Cup, Maiden, and Gold Cup. White River himself could reappear this season, potentially serving as a lead horse in the opening event the Fashion Heights Duchess of York Cup.

This year, Manoel Nunes has a golden opportunity to add the Duchess to his impressive list of achievements a classic that has so far eluded him. He'll have strong support, with trainer Ramapatee 'Soun' Gujadhur fielding several top contenders: Itsrainingwilliam, Port Louis, and The Mauritian all ones to watch closely.

There's little doubt that many turf enthusiasts will be at Champ de Mars tomorrow morning not just for the trials, but to give a warm welcome back to one of the most gifted jockeys ever to grace the Port Louis track.