Former three-time champion jockey Dane Nelson continued his splendid form in the saddle with a three-timer on the 10-race programme at Caymanas Park on New Year’s Day.

Nelson started his streak in the first race when he guided the Richard Azan-trained Taranis to a one-length victory over Southern Cruise (Shane Ellis up) and Shining Light under Shamaree Muir in the New Year’s Day Trophy, a Restricted Allowance event for native-bred four-year-olds and upward non-winners of three other than over 1,300 metres. The winning time was a decent 1:20.0 minutes behind splits of 23.1, 46.3 and 1:12.3 minutes.

Nelson then masterfully won aboard Princess Shemika for trainer Steven Todd in the fourth race over 1,100 metres. Princess Shemika won ahead of Infantry Officer with Aaron Chatrie astride and Eusebia under Robert Halledeen.

The cap came in the 10th and final race when Nelson steered the Peter McMaster-trained Ras Emanuel to victory in the Restricted Allowance event for native-bred four-year-olds and upward non-winners of two. Trojan (Robert Halledeen astride) was second and Commanding Aviator under Aaron Chatrie, third.

“The feeling is really great to win three races in one day. Winning races always elevates your career and gives you recognition. When jockeys win races, they are seen by more trainers and will get the opportunity to get better rides and I am happy that I was able to ride a triple on the first race day of the new season,” Nelson told the Complete Racing Guide.

“I am riding in good form and I just want to thank the connections for giving me the rides as I will continue to do the necessary hard work to get the job done at all times,” he added.