New Zealand-bred colt Militarize’s tilt at the Gr.1 Golden Rose (1400m) at Rosehill on Saturday will have the benefit of leading international jockey Joao Moriera in the saddle.

The Brazilian hoop has been on a farewell tour after handing in his Hong Kong jockey’s license last year as a result of ongoing hip issues but has found a new lease on life as a result of a daily stretching and strengthening routine.

“If you asked me this time of the year last year if I would be riding now, I would have said ‘no chance’,” Moreira said. “Now I’m feeling good.

“I’ve been working with a doctor who has been spending a lot of time with me making sure I feel not too bad.

“It’s good that I can change the story now. I’m feeling good and I’m just going to ride as long as I can.”

Moriera is looking forward to reuniting with Militarize this weekend after riding him to victory in the Gr.1 Inglis Sires’ (1400m) and Gr.1 Champagne Stakes (1600m) at Randwick earlier this year.

The son of Dundeel was fifth first-up in the Gr.2 Run To The Rose (1200m) and Moreira said he has received positive reports from trainer Chris Waller.

“He’s pretty much the reason why I’m back,” Moreira said. 

“He was such a nice horse for me earlier this year. 

“He’s been working well, he’s been trialling well. Chris (Waller) seems to be very confident about him performing again as he did at the end of his last campaign.”