WHEN the latest batch of 20 apprentices started their riding careers on September 8, a lot was expected of them and truth be told, they have so far delivered.

The apprentices have added a well-needed new dimension to the racing product, giving trainers the opportunity of using their claiming allowances to enhance the handicap chances of their horses.

In addition, the apprentices have added excitement and colour on racedays. Race-goers are appreciating the clashes involving the seasoned jockeys and the apprentices, often cheering the youngsters on to victory.

It is instructive to note that up to November 17, 2012, 13 of the 20 apprentices have ridden winners, which represents more than half of the present lot. We have seen in the past when apprentices hit the track, a selected few fly from the traps like scared hares riding winner after winner, while the rest simply plod along, almost forever searching for their first visit to the winners’ enclosure.

Such, however, is the competitive nature of racing and sports in general that cream will always rise to the top. The apprentices who shine will always capture the imagination of the public and even more essential for them, the trust of trainers who are the ones who seek riders for their horses.

The apprentices who find the going rough should not be deterred, neither should their mentoring organisation, the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC), abandon them. They should continue receiving counselling and be guided by the JRC as they try to improve their lot in racing.

Not every apprentice will turn out to be a George HoSang, an Emilio Rodriquez or a Winston Griffiths — that is simply not possible. Some may get close, or even reach the dizzying heights of being a champion. The majority, though, will be left to find a way on their own, especially after losing the much coveted apprentice claim, or as it is referred to in the sport, their ‘bug’.

Racing is of such that riders of all levels are required to keep the sport afloat. Take, for example, our present situation. Dane Nelson, Dick Cardenas, Shane Ellis, and Omar Walker are our celebrated jockeys, yet jockeys like Richard Mairs, Richard Mitchell, Andre Martin and Paul Francis are always needed to provide competition and to maintain the pool of riders necessary to keep the sport going.

So for the apprentices who have not been fortunate to ride a winner as yet, be not disheartened. Continue to work assiduously at morning exercise, continue to watch films of the best local and overseas riders, continue to listen to advice and continue to have an open mind.

To those apprentices who are impressing, who are riding winner after winner, continue to be humble, continue to learn and continue to work. Remember always that success is but a fleeting phase in the cycle of racing and for sure, the drought will come.

It is during this phase of adversity when everything seems to be going wrong that your mettle as a rider, your mettle as a human being will be tried, tested and proven. If this test is passed, the future will become brighter and brighter.