Image Credit: Getty ImagesJockey Robbie Dolan Celebrates Melbourne Cup Win with Ronan Keating
Celebrating an unforgettable week, Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Robbie Dolan takes the stage alongside Ronan Keating, showcasing his vocal talent while reflecting on a career pinnacle that has far exceeded his dreams.
Just when jockey Robbie Dolan, fresh off his Melbourne Cup win, thought his week couldn't improve any further, he ended up sharing the spotlight with fellow Irish artist Ronan Keating. Following his remarkable win on Tuesday riding the $81 long shot, Knight's Choice, Dolan took to the microphone at the Crown Oaks Club Lunch on Wednesday, entertaining a crowd of 1,250 attendees.
The duo performed beloved classics such as When You Say Nothing At All, Van Morrison's Brown Eyed Girl, and Keating's famous track Life is a Rollercoaster. “I had never sung with Ronan before, so we had a brief sound check. It was incredible,” Dolan told News Corp. “I thought I had already reached the peak, but this experience elevates it even more.”
Dolan, who held his winning jockey's cup while on stage, expressed his respect for Keating, who had even placed a successful bet on him. After the performance, Keating warmly hugged Dolan and remarked, "He sang my song on The Voice, so I just had to come and see him."
Hailing from County Kildare in Ireland, Dolan relocated to Australia with his family eight years ago. They originally intended to stay for just a year, but he soon developed a deep affection for the country. Recognized for his singing talent, the 28-year-old participated in The Voice in 2022, where he showcased his rendition of The Horses by Daryl Braithwaite at The Valley that year. “I’ll be singing tonight after a couple of drinks,” Dolan quipped.
Although he had previously suggested that winning the Melbourne Cup would be the perfect time to retire, Dolan has changed his mind. “I’m not ready to give it up. The experience was just too amazing,” he remarked, adding, “I can hardly believe it. Last night, I watched the past 40 years of Melbourne Cup races, and I thought that if I could keep him steady and push at the right moment, we might stand a chance.”
For Dolan, who has always been determined to silence his critics, winning the Melbourne Cup represents the height of his career. “This is the most prestigious race in the world, and to win it is indescribable,” he stated.
