Omar Simpson, a determined and resilient jockey, celebrated his first win in two years aboard the Michael Marlowe-conditioned Last Dance in the second race on Saturday, August 24, 2024.

Last Dance’s win came in a native-bred five-year-old and upward (non-winners of four) and imported five-year-olds and upward (non-winners of three) at 6 ½ furlongs.

Owned by New Blue Limited, Last Dance made one move to win easily by 3 ¾ lengths, beating Muzzo (Aaron Chatrie) and Who Doneit (Carlos Blake) in 1:24.4 (24.4 x 49.3 x 1:17.1).

This triumph marked a significant milestone in Simpson’s journey, after having to deal with a prolonged period of adversity.

Simpson said that the victory was a testament to his unwavering dedication and perseverance.

“You have ups and downs in life, so you have to balance your thing and put in the work and wait for your time to come,” he reflected.

“I have been preparing myself that when my time comes, I am going to do my best and execute well. I have been putting in the hard work and I am just happy that it paid off,” Simpson told the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.

When asked about his win, Simpson humbly credited the team behind him, saying, “I must thank the owner, trainer, groom, agent, and everybody behind this win.” He also expressed his gratitude to Father God, acknowledging the role of faith in his success.

Simpson’s last win was aboard Blue Sea in 2022, making this victory even sweeter, and with renewed confidence, he looks forward to continuing his winning path.

“Nothing in life is easy, you have to fight for what you want, and I am here fighting. This win is just the start as I am confident that I will continue to reap success. I know that I am a good rider, it is just the support I want as I am doing the work. I feel good in myself and I am definitely looking out for more,” Simpson said.