The 2024 racing season witnessed the emergence of a fresh wave of apprentice jockeys, all of whom had graduated from the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) Jockeys’ Training School.

These young riders were eager to make their mark on the competitive world of horse racing. Among them, a select group of talented individuals has commenced their careers with a string of promising triumphs, showcasing impressive skill, unwavering dedication, and unrelenting passion.

Richie Shakes was the first to make headlines, guiding his mount,
Benson, to a thrilling victory on December 28, 2024. This win was particularly significant, as it marked not only Shakes’ first victory but also his first ride. The impressive manner in which he secured this win ignited a sense of excitement and anticipation among racing enthusiasts, who eagerly awaits his future performances.

Demar Williams was another apprentice jockey who demonstrated exceptional prowess in the saddle. Aboard
Sabina, Williams showcased his tactical acumen and riding skills, surging from behind to claim a hard-fought victory. This triumph marked a memorable milestone in Williams’ burgeoning career, as he earned his place in the winners’ enclosure for the first time. This was also achieved on December 28.

However, the most talked-about moment of the season came courtesy of Emelio McLean. In a heart-pounding duel aboard Clowning Around, McLean outmanoeuvred seasoned jockey Tevin Foster, who was riding
Medal Award. The significance of this victory echoed far beyond the track, as McLean’s triumph symbolised a turning point in the jockeys’ championship race. By thwarting Foster’s attempt to equal his standing with Raddesh Roman, McLean injected a fresh wave of excitement into the championship chase.

As the calendar flipped to 2025, the excitement continued to build. On Saturday, January 4, Javier Sybble joined the ranks of victorious apprentices, riding Town Star to a thrilling triumph under the guidance of trainer Donovan Plummer. Sybble’s impressive display of skill and poise in the saddle marked him as a talented young rider to watch.

Tajay Suckoo further distinguished himself on the same day, leveraging every ounce of his strength and tactical acumen to guide Victor Williams’ horse, Rapida, to a hard-fought victory. Suckoo’s determination and perseverance paid off as he bested fellow apprentice Roshaune Lewis, cementing his place among the newcomers making waves on the track.

The following weekend, on Saturday, January 11, both Suckoo and Shakes added to their victory tallies. Suckoo’s nail-biting win aboard Uncle Nub ignited whispers among punters about the newfound rivalry between the apprentices and established jockeys. As Suckoo outmanoeuvred Foster, who was riding
Equinox, the crowd was left on the edge of their seats.

Shakes, meanwhile, executed a flawless gate-to-wire victory on Power Ranking for trainer Lawrence Freemantle, securing his second recorded success. This win marked a significant milestone in Shakes’ burgeoning career, as he demonstrated his ability to adapt to different racing scenarios and emerge victorious.

The excitement surrounding these races brought an electric atmosphere to the track, underscoring a burgeoning sense of competitiveness among the newcomers. While it’s essential to recognise that these are early days in their careers, the initial successes of these five apprentices have been both inspiring and invigorating.

Their performances demonstrate not only impressive skill but also a commendable respect for the sport’s regulations, particularly the whip rules limiting the number of strikes permissible during a race. This understanding was evident during Suckoo’s gripping duel aboard Uncle Nub, where finesse and strategy were as crucial as speed.

As we reflect on these developments, there’s an air of optimism for the future of horse racing. The performances of these young riders, fueled by dedication, passion, and a thirst for success, promise to usher in a new era on the racing circuit.

Here’s to these budding talents — may their successes continue to multiply, lighting the way for even more thrilling races ahead. Good wishes to all as they embark on this journey filled with hope, ambition, and the sheer joy of the sport.