A multiple Group 1-winning jockey, Freddy Tylicki cruelly had his career in the saddle cut short when he was partially paralysed in a fall at Kempton back in October 2016. Nowadays, Tylicki is a familiar face on the sales circuit through his role as a bloodstock agent, as well as making regular appearances on our TV screens as a Sky Sports Racing pundit. In 2023, he added another string to his bow when he became a jockeys' agent, with two Flat riders currently on his books.
Ambiente Friendly (Ire) (Gleneagles {Ire}) almost achieved every bloodstock agent's dream for you when runner-up in last year's Derby. What was it about him that appealed to you when you first bought him?
I first got a glimpse of him pre-breeze at the Craven and he caught my eye. He didn't disappoint in the main breeze where he showed his athleticism, balance and powerful stride. When I went to view him he oozed a touch of class, with a very genuine eye, and I felt that he was the one to get.
How much of a thrill did you get out of the journey he took you on in 2024?
Having been in the racing industry all of my life, I`m very aware of how rare and lucky it is to get your hands on a horse who ends up running in the Derby, never mind finishing second. Therefore, it has been an exciting and very enjoyable journey.
We didn't see the best of Ambiente Friendly after his third-place finish in the Irish Derby. Do you still retain the belief in him?
I've got great belief in the horse and I feel the upcoming turf season will be very fruitful for him and connections. He has been placed in two Classics, is a year stronger now, and will get every chance to set the record straight.
What made you happiest in 2024?
I became an uncle–my sister Madeleine gave birth to her daughter Romy.
Tell us about one of your other roles as a jockeys' agent. Who do you currently have on your books?
My role as a jockeys' agent is down to two jockeys, Tom Eaves and Rowan Scott. I enjoy that work as it keeps me in the loop and certainly up to date with runners, winners, sales, bloodstock, stats, etc. It's not an easy gig as you've got to be on the ball on a daily basis with trainers and owners in order to get winners and rides for your jockeys. Tom Eaves and I go a long way back and two years ago he asked me if I fancied looking after his rides. I thought I'd give it a go and that's how I got into it. They're two great lads and a pleasure to work with. I suppose that makes the job enjoyable and it gives me an even greater sense of satisfaction when they ride winners on horses that I sourced at the sales or privately.
You also do a lot of media work for Sky Sports Racing. How does the adrenaline rush of presenting from a big meeting compare to when you were riding?
Big meetings are always special for everyone as it provides a great atmosphere with top equine athletes competing at the highest level. It's a pleasure talking the viewers through your experiences and [to be able to] share the knowledge you gained throughout the years, using it to analyse a race. But when you've half a tonne underneath you going a little over 40mph and you gave it a peach of a ride to win, that is just adrenaline that hooks you for life. For me it's not comparable.
What was your best day in the saddle?
Winning the [G1] Prix de l'Opera on Speedy Boarding (GB) (Shamardal) and riding Savoir Vivre (Ire) (Adlerflug {Ger}) in the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe in 2016.
Give us a dark horse to follow for the year ahead?
I'm looking forward to a two-year-old by Supremacy (Ire) out of Scat's Rose (Scat Daddy) who I purchased for Stetchworth and Middle Park Studs. He isn't named just yet.
Who is the best value stallion with the start of the breeding season just around the corner?
I was quite impressed by the first crop stats for Sands Of Mali (Fr) and I wouldn't hesitate in advising a client to send a mare to him.
What would make 2025 a good year for you?
Staying healthy and positive, living life and making the best of it.
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