PUERTO Rican born, Florida-based jockey Jeffrey Sanchez believes his albeit short riding time in Jamaica was a good experience.

“Coming to Jamaica and riding at Caymanas Park for me was a very good experience and one that I appreciate a lot. I thank Mr Solomon Sharpe for the invitation to ride here as it was a great moment for me,” Sanchez said at the end of Diamond Mile Day at Caymanas Park on Saturday last.

“For a jockey to go and ride at different racetracks will always be beneficial, as there are different cultures and riding styles and you will always learn something new. Things like that can help your career grow in the right direction,” said the 30-year-old.

Sanchez, who rode the Solomon Sharpe-conditioned

Uncle Taf in the inaugural running of the $13.5-million Supreme Ventures Limited Diamond Mile Race, gave the assurance that he will always be available to ride at Caymanas Park once he is invited.

“The people here in Jamaica are very nice, as they have treated me with respect and they are fun to be around. There are no dull moments here and any opportunity I get to return here at Caymanas Park and ride, I will without any doubt accept,” he assured.

Sanchez, who has ridden 715 winners in his career, shared his view about the racetrack.

“The racetrack here is a very good one. The racing surface is good. The track is big and there are not a lot of differences between the track out here and the ones in America.

“Many of the racetracks in America and the one out here are similar; however, there are some differences. Up there you have turf to ride on, and out here there is no turf. But overall, Jamaica has a really good racetrack and I hope the officials take care of it,” Sanchez declared.

Sanchez is best known for winning the 2010 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies aboard

Awesome Feather, with whom he also swept the Florida Stallion Stakes at the Calder Race Course.

“Every jockey wants to win races and that is what makes them good. To win races, you first have to put your trust in God, along with the hard work, dedication and the belief in yourself. Once you remain confident, then you will ride winners,” Sanchez said.