AS a renowned jockey Dane Nelson has achieved great success in the racing world but on Father’s Day he takes a time to remember the man who made it all possible — his father Robert, affectionately known as Striker.

With heartfelt gratitude Nelson acknowledges his father’s guidance in shaping his career.

“My father played a key role in my professional development,” Nelson said with appreciation. “He saw potential in me and encouraged me to pursue my dreams.”

Growing up, Nelson was immersed in the world of horse racing, with his father, a trainer at Caymanas Park, teaching him the ropes. He vividly recalls his first ride in an exercise race on a horse named Caliban, trained by his father, during which he finished third.

This early exposure sparked a passion that would drive Nelson to become one of the sport’s top jockeys. Nelson has over 1,200 winners at Caymanas Park and over 400 winners on the North American riding circuit.

“I will always remember that day when I finished third aboard
Caliban,” he said. “My father was the first person to give me a ride at Caymanas Park. Although I never won the race it was a special moment for me and one that defined my career.

“I was 16 years old at the time and so you could say that I was around my father in the racing industry from day one, learning everything involved with the sport of horse racing.”

Nelson’s connection to racing is deeply rooted in his family heritage. His mother’s side boasts a legacy of accomplished jockeys including Richard and Robert Reid, Nelson’s uncles. With a strong foundation in the sport Nelson’s achievements are a testament to the support and guidance of his father and family.

“Dad, you’ve been my rock, my mentor, and my biggest supporter,” Nelson said. “Your guidance and encouragement have meant the world to me. I couldn’t have achieved my dreams without you. Thank you for being such an amazing father. Happy Father’s Day.”

But Dane’s story doesn’t end there. He’s not only a son who credits his father for his success but also a devoted father himself.

With four children of his own, plus two step-children with his wife Christina, Nelson understands the importance of being a supportive and loving father.

“My children are my everything,” he said with a smile.

“My children are Denique, 18; Jadae, 13; Daneila, three; and Tiann, one; while Christina’s children are Devon, 24 and Tredell, 17. And so I have six children and they motivate me to be the best version of myself, both on and off the track.”

Nelson says his family is his rock, and he’s grateful for their unwavering support.

“They are my biggest supporters and I love them very much,” he said. “My wife and children are always there to encourage me, even on the toughest days. My children are not with me at the moment in Canada as I am currently riding at the Century Mile, but because of technology I keep in touch with them.

“They also come up here on the holidays and spend time with me. My wife loves them, and she takes good care of them like they are hers. She is a wonderful mother to them — and I can’t tell you how much that means to me. Devon and Tredell, they are my generals,” an emotional Nelson told the
Observer.