JAHEIM Anderson’s journey as an apprentice jockey had been a roller-coaster ride of emotions. Despite his dedication and passion for racing, Anderson had struggled to find his footing, finishing in second and third place multiple times, without a win.

The frustration and discouragement took a toll on the young man who, at one point, considered giving up on his dreams.

But Anderson’s loved ones became his rock, providing support and encouragement. His sister and family members have been a constant source of motivation, urging him to persevere and believe in himself.

On Saturday, September 6, 2025 their faith in him was vindicated.

Aboard Undeclared War in the opening race Anderson finally achieved his first career win since graduating from the Jamaica Racing Commission Jockeys’ Training School in mid-December 2024.

As he returned to the unsaddling enclosure, beaming with joy, it was clear that this moment was the culmination of hard work, determination, and the support of those who mattered most.

“I am feeling very happy right now,” Anderson said, his emotions pouring out.

“I have been waiting so long for my first career winner. I have finished a lot of seconds and thirds, and I have been waiting, but it’s a good thing that I have my sister and loved ones supporting me. I mean, they have been telling me that it [my first winner] will surely come and I must not give up.

“It finally came, and I am very happy for it,” said Anderson who thanked everyone who backed him — the owner, trainer, groom, friends and family members.

Anderson’s path to success was not without its challenges.

“I was feeling discouraged, not winning any races, but as I said, it was my loved ones that kept me going. At one point I told my agent that this thing was getting to me.

[“I told him,] ‘I don’t get as many rides; I don’t get many good rides. They don’t have me as a good jockey as yet but I know in myself that I have the potential to be a good rider.’ The frustration and everything were getting me down but it was good that I had my loved ones behind me,” Anderson told the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.

Trained by Cashbert Kwalsingh, Undeclared War came from behind runners to beat Girlythebutcher (Teneca Wolfe) by half-length in the Maiden Condition race for native-bred four-year-olds and upward over 4 furlongs (800m). Undeclared War won in a time of 50.1, with Boasey Girl (Garvin Harris) finishing third.

Anderson’s first career win has brought a huge boost to his confidence.

“Now that I got the monkey off my back, my confidence level has risen and I want to win more races,” he said, expressing his determination to continue improving.

Anderson recognises that success requires hard work, discipline, and determination, but he’s committed to putting in the effort.

“I know that I have the skills to deliver; I just want that extra push,” Anderson added.

Undeclared War (right,Jaheim Anderson) gets the better of Girlythebutcher (Teneca Wolfe) in the opening event on Saturday, September 6, 2025. Garfield Robinson