Veteran jockey Robert Thompson can probably count on a few more rides for Tony McEvoy after a perfect start with a driving victory on Prince Of Capers at Rosehill on Saturday.

Thompson, who has ridden more winners than any other Australian jockey, had to use all his skills to get Prince Of Capers ($17) over the line a half head in front of Merlin Mustang ($7) in the BAC Systems Handicap (1800m).

It has been a tough couple of weeks for Thompson who lost his father Arthur to cancer last Tuesday week.

The 55-year-old was soon back plying his trade and rode a winner last Monday. His win for McEvoy came at his first ride for the trainer who recently opened a stable at Hawkesbury to complement his Adelaide operation.

"I've never ridden for Tony before. He rang and asked me if I could ride a horse for him at Newcastle today," Thompson said.

"When I told him I would be in Sydney he asked me if I would ride this horse so I would like to thank him.

"It was a good tough win."

Thompson, who passed Jack Thompson's winning record in 2008, said he thought he was now up to "three thousand eight hundred and seventy something".

The jockey will have a rare day off riding on Sunday but will still keep busy on his Hunter Valley farm.

"I've got to shift about 150 cattle," he said.

After he does that he will be back next week with no thoughts of retirement.