New batch of apprentices take first steps
WITH the jockeys’ training school programme scheduled to begin next month, 25 exercise riders including of three females were given a chance to demonstrate their skills in what was dubbed the ‘gate test’ at Caymanas Park last Wednesday morning.
The ‘gate test’ was organised by the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) who runs the jockeys’ programme for their operations stewards to make a final assessment of the young riders from whom 21 will be selected to participate in the actual training.
Mellissa Ward, one of three female riders in the batch, said that she had no problems and was confident she had passed.
“Honestly, I had no problems this morning (Wednesday). It was an excellent performance for me. I got a wonderful break and that was that, as I was relaxed and confident in what I was doing,” Ward told the Complete Racing Guide. The other female riders taking part were Natalie Berger and Andree Powell, and they too were pleased with their performances.
Michael Pottinger (Jnr), who won two exercise riders’ races last year said: “My horse broke and went straight to the left, but with my experience and exposure I was able to control him and position myself well. It was a good ‘gate test’ for me. I was confident, and that is the most important thing…to be confident,” he explained.
Oniel Scott, one of the more experienced riders in the group, said the test was still a learning process for him.
“The test went ok. I thought I did well, but this is a learning process for me as I am not there as yet. I am still a student of the sport and I am still learning.
“I was in the last batch of riders who graduated in 2012 but things didn’t work out in my favour then.Now I am more confident and willing to learn,” Scott said.
Jockey Andre Martin, who was one of the examiners, said that the young riders did themselves proud.
“These exercise riders were very good as they showed good balancing skills. They were actually better than the last batch of riders and my expectation is that most of them will be going on to win a lot of races. “They did themselves proud and as time goes by I think that they will accomplish a lot. My advice to them is to learn as much as they can from now and continue to do the hard work,” Martin said.
Also present was former champion jockey Charles Hussey, sharing his vast expertise with the young riders.
