RISING apprentice jockey Demar Williams is aiming high in his debut season at Caymanas Park, setting his sights on becoming the Champion Apprentice by year’s end.

The 27-year-old Williams, who began his riding career in December last year, has quickly made his presence felt in the saddle. Currently third in the apprentice standings with 13, Williams trails leader Richie Shakes (19 wins) and Tajay Suckoo (15 wins). Despite the gap, Williams is optimistic and driven by a strong belief in his potential.

“I can’t complain because I have been having a good career so far,” he said. “I now have 14 wins, and 13 wins this year and a good strike rate so far and so I am feeling very good about that. I have been getting a lot of good rides — and more than I expected — and that is a good sign,” Williams said.

Born and raised in Arnett Gardens and a past student of Charlie Smith High School in Kingston, Williams found his way into the sport naturally. Horse racing is deeply rooted in his community, and from the moment he left school his path was clear.

“It wasn’t really difficult getting into racing because a lot of people from my community are always in the racing industry,” Williams added. “From the moment I came to the racetrack I just fell in love with it. From the first time I got introduced to horse racing I knew that this was my passion. I said, ‘This is what I want to do for the rest of my life.’

Williams’ work ethic and consistency have been key to his rise. Week after week he has been picking up more rides and gaining valuable experience on the track.

“Every week I have been getting a good amount of rides and so I am pleased about that. My aim is that I start the year with becoming the champion apprentice or at least be in the top 10 jockeys for this year.”

“I don’t really have any targets in terms of the amount of races that I want to win,” he said. “I just want to win as many races as it takes to maintain myself in the top 10 and to win the champion apprentice.”

The thrill of race day and the energy at Caymanas Park continue to fuel his passion.

“It has been an amazing experience so far riding here at Caymanas Park. You see it during race days when you are in the stands and on TV but to be out there on the track is another experience,” Williams pointed out. “It is amazing, and it is nothing like you ever experienced before — and I love it and I have been enjoying every minute.”