Joe Fanning is back riding out for Charlie Johnston and working towards a return to race-riding after successful prostate cancer surgery earlier this year.
The 55-year-old has not ridden in public since last November, but the veteran Flat jockey has resumed morning work at Johnston’s Middleham stable and is using Jack Berry House as part of his fitness build-up.
Fanning told the Nick Luck Daily Podcast that his post-surgery checks had been encouraging, with PSA blood results coming back clear. Sporting Life reported that he still has medicals to complete before he can book a comeback ride.
Fanning edging closer to medical clearance
The update is significant because Fanning remains one of the most experienced active riders in Britain and is nearing 3,000 career winners, having ridden his first winner in 1990.
For Johnston’s team, his presence on the gallops is also a practical boost during the heart of the Flat season, even before any racecourse comeback is confirmed.
He said he feels “fit and very well” but is not putting a firm date on his return. That measured approach makes sense after surgery in February, but the direction of travel is clear: Fanning is back in the saddle at home and moving closer to the final clearance required for racecourse action.
