When did you start your career as a jockey?

When I was attending the Waterford High School, I was more into playing football before an owner recommended that I visit the racetrack. I then took it upon myself to visit Caymanas Park, and after a while I developed a liking for horses. I went around trainer Desmond Shand who taught me about horses. I started my career as a jockey in 2006. Since then, I have made racing and riding horses in particular my job and I love it. I also work very hard at my profession; sometimes it is not easy.

Which horse was your first winner?

My first winner was Crusader Rally over 1,300 metres. That day I was the happiest man on earth. It was joy and excitement at the same time. It was a very nice feeling knowing that I rode a winner after so much hard work, determination and dedication towards the sport. I felt alive that day, just wonderful and I must thank the connections for giving me the ride. Winning my first race will always be special for me.

Which horse was your longest odds winner?

My longest odds winner was Double The Honey at 32-1. It doesn’t matter the odds, it is always good to win races and that is what jockeys are in the sport to do, to win races. However, that day, I was extremely happy because I won the race beating Exotic Gold with visiting American jockey Orlando Boccachica, who went on to win the Derby with Perfect Neighbour and Rio Cobre with Dane Nelson in a blanket finish with the three horses spread across the track, and I was able to get the nod. All three horses were trained by Wayne DaCosta. That victory was a sweet one and I will always remember it: one of my best rides, and coming on Derby Day made it sweeter.

Which is the best horse you have ever ridden?

Double The Honey, who is an Overnight Allowance campaigner, My Legacy, who was very consistent and was always running some good races, Bora Bora, and Nasatol. I won as many as eight races on Nasatol. All of these horses were talented horses and I am honoured that I got the chance to ride them all.

Which horse is the best horse you have seen race at Caymanas Park?

Well, I have seen a lot of talented horses race at Caymanas Park, but Saint Cecelia, Blumenthal, Mark My Word and Menudo have really stood out for me. They are really talented horses that always gave their best each time they raced.

Who has influenced your career the most?

Everyone has been good to me so far, but I have to give a special shout-out to Desmond Shand, Randolph Shaw and my father Harriston Lewis (Snr) as they really played a significant part in my development as a rider.