PRINCE ‘Daggerman’ Holder, who was voted the most improved rider for 2013 with 34 wins, notched his first winner for the year; thanks to a chance ride aboard the Rowan Mathie-trained Gran Corazon over 1,500 metres in the ninth race at Caymans Park last Saturday.

Hot apprentice O’Brien White was slated to ride Gran Corazon but he was kicked by his mount, Traditional Prince in the saddling area prior to the eighth race and was taken to the hospital for medical attention, which then gave Holder the opportunity and he took full advantage and romped to his first victory since early December of last year.

“It feels good to win my first race this year, it was coming for a long time now and I am happy that it finally came. It feels like a big burden has come off my back.

“Thanks to the trainer, Rowan Mathie for the chance ride, it seems like the winning ways are coming back,” the 23-year-old Holder told the Complete Racing Guide.

Holder, who started riding at the Park in 2012, knows very well that success will only come with hard work.

“I know that it will take a lot of hard work and dedication if I want to start winning races again, but that is what I am doing right now. Once you are confident and put in the hard work you can win races,” he explained.

The Maggotty High School graduate said that he has no regrets choosing a profession in the racing industry.

“I have no regrets, everyone has been good to me since I have been riding at the Park. I want to thank all the trainers, fellow jockeys, grooms, fans, and everybody that have supported me and I will continue to do the hard work in making everyone proud,” he ended.