What they say! – Michael Grant
When did your start your career as a jockey?
My career as a jockey started in 2009 but I was involved in the sport from a young age as I was a horseback rider in Mammee Bay where I lived before I moved here in Portmore. I was then introduced to horse racing by trainer Welsh Soutar and after some regular visits to the Park, I my interest in horse racing grew.
Which horse was your first winner?
My first winner came aboard Dazzle Dem going over seven furlongs. I was so excited to get off the mark as anxiety took me over before I passed the winning in front and I thank trainer Alroy Watson for believing in me and giving me the ride.
Which horse was your longest odds winner?
Fee Fi Foe at 79-1 going over five-and-half furlongs for trainer Welsh Soutar was my longest odds winner. I wasn’t all that excited as I was confident in my horse but I was quite surprised that he went off as such long odds.
Which is the best horse that you have ridden?
Fee Fi Foe was a good horse with a lot of abilities and I have also ridden Crucial Appeal. Although I didn’t win on Crucial Appeal, he is best horse that I have ridden thus far in my career. He is a great sprinter and will develop into a nice racehorse.
Which is the best horse that you have seen race at Caymanas Park?
I have seen a lot of talented racehorses, but to me I would say that Nasatol is the best horse that I have seen race at Caymanas Park. Despite been a claiming horse Nasatol (now deceased) was a warrior; always fighting and winning his races. He won the most races to date at Caymanas Park which speaks a lot of his talent and the will to win races. It might be surprising to many but Nasatol was actually a wonderful horse.
Who influenced your career the most?
Since I have been in the racing industry everyone has been good to me. Trainers, jockeys, grooms, fans, owners, family and friends have supported me well and I want to thank them for that. I want to give special thanks to trainer Welsh Soutar for the opportunity of a lifetime and his continual support and also retired groom Roy Daniels for his guidance and encouragement along the way.