After relocating his tack three years ago to Gulfstream Park in Florida, jockey Anthony Thomas made a triumphant return to his homeland on Ash Wednesday (February 18), greeted enthusiastically by his many local supporters.

The three-time former champion did not disappoint. Combining his trademark fluidity of movement with a powerful finishing drive, Thomas guided Bangarang to victory in the fourth of 10 races on the day, edging past Legal Fight, ridden by Shavon Townsend, in a thrilling final-furlong duel.

Bangarang was the second of three winners on the Ash Wednesday card for trainer Peter-John Parsard, with Bubbling Warrior (Anthony Frazer) securing third place. The winning time was 48.2 seconds for four furlongs.

“It is always good to return home after being away for so long, and riding a winner from the number one draw in a straight race, a rare feat, is quite satisfying. I am happy also that my family is here with me to enjoy this moment. It is really a good feeling to be back home,” Thomas said post-race in the winners’ enclosure.

The road back has been far from easy. A native of St Mary, Thomas suffered a serious fall in Florida on July 27, 2024, during an exercise session when the horse he was riding flipped and landed heavily on his right leg, just above the knee. The injury forced him to spend more than a year away from the saddle as he undertook a painstaking recovery.

“It was not easy. It was, for me, a very long and difficult time but I was determined to get back in shape to mount up again and ride. That took time, that took a lot of willpower, and at one stage to get back in the saddle, I had to put on weight to meet riding engagements at Gulfstream. Usually jockeys have to lose weight, I had to gain weight.

Thankfully, with the help of family, friends, and the medical people, I am now recovered and riding again,” Thomas shared.

Now fit, Thomas is listed for six rides on Saturday’s programme, according to the overnight entries. Following the meet, he is expected to return to his current base in Florida.

Jockey Anthony Thomas is surrounded by the connections of Bangarang. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)

THE KISS OF A WINNER: Anthony Thomas kisses his daughter Azaria as he celebrates his riding success while hugging his wife Sashana. (Photo: Garfield Robinson)