Dane Nelson achieves milestone of 400 career wins in Canada…wants to take his trade beyond Canadian borders
Dane Nelson’s riding career in Canada has been marked by his unflinching dedication to the sport and relentless pursuit of excellence.
These attributes have allowed him to reach the pivotal milestone of 400 winners, achieved on June 1, at Edmonton’s Century Mile racetrack, riding
Prance to a convincing three-length victory in a six-furlong claiming event for three-year-old and upward fillies and mares.
Prance, trained by James Brown, completed the distance in a time of 1:10.1.
With 400 wins under his belt, the accomplished four-time Jamaican champion reinsman continues to defy expectations and push the boundaries of success.
“Success only comes with hard work and I am blessed and grateful for my achievement of 400 winners in Canada,” Nelson told the
Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.
“With God, all things are possible. You can earn greatness from small beginnings just like me when you have faith in the Lord.
“I thank all trainers, owners, grooms, fellow riders, my agent, fans, family members, and everyone who has played their part in my success. Without everyone’s input, I wouldn’t have reached where I am today and accomplished all that I have,” the bustling rider said.
Nelson’s impressive start to the season has seen him secure 11 wins, placing him second in the jockey’s championship standings some five wins behind leader Jose Mariano Asencio on 16 winners.
“The season has started good so far. I can’t complain as everything has been wonderful. The plan is to defend my championship title and I am putting in the hard work for that,” said Nelson, who is also the reigning champion jockey at Century Downs.
The defending champion is determined to reclaim the top spot, but his aspirations include riding at the top track in Canada (Woodbine) and eventually beyond Canadian borders.
“I started riding in Canada in 2015 and have had a successful career. I have learned a lot and without a doubt, I have become much better at my craft. And to be honest, I am still learning the game. No matter how experienced and successful you are, there’s always room for improvement and so I want to be the best I can be,” the 39-year-old Nelson said.
“I have ridden and won races at Assiniboia Downs, Hastings, Northlands Park, Lethbridge, Century Mile, and Century Downs, among others. My next move is to ride in America and at the Woodbine racetrack.
“I have been in the saddle at Woodbine before but didn’t win any races there. I finished a close second at long odds and it was a good experience for me. I just want to carry my talent all over the world to let everybody know the ‘Warrior Chief’.
“As I have said, I am still learning and with every opportunity, I want to learn and get better and better,” said Nelson, who has ridden over 1,200 winners at Caymanas Park.