Roshaune Lewis breaks through
… jockey wins first career race, beating brother Reyan
Apprentice jockey Roshaune Lewis finally broke through on Sunday, March 1, 2026, capturing his first career win after over a year of perseverance.
In a unique moment, Lewis, riding the Ryan Darby-conditioned Sudden Flight, defeated his own brother Reyan, a former champion jockey and a winner of over 300 races. Reyan was aboard Stein, finishing three lengths behind the winner.
The race was a five-year-old and upward Optional Claiming ($200,000) event that included native-bred six-year-olds and upward (non-winners of two) and native-bred five-year-old (maidens) over 3½ furlongs (700m).
“This is a good impression. I mean, I am happy that I have won my first race as it has been almost two years since I got my licence,” Lewis said, reflecting on his long-awaited victory.
“It took me a while but I am glad that I have won my first race. It is the most important thing in getting your jockey’s licence, and so it is a good feeling,” Lewis told the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.
Lewis credited his brother for guidance towards his first win.
“Reyan is my younger brother and he gave me a lot of heads up towards this race. He told me a few things such as, I must ride a comfortable race, keep a cool mind, and get the job done,” the 27-year-old Lewis said.
Lewis was humble in assessing his performance.
“To be honest, out of 10, I gave myself a seven because you know I cannot be confident until the race is over. The most important thing is to get the job done and I knew that would get the job done today.”
Looking ahead, Lewis is eager to build on this momentum.
“I have no regrets choosing this profession. I got involved in the sport through my brother and I am very grateful. I got that first win out of the way and so the work continues with the hope of getting more winners,” Lewis stated.
Lewis concluded: “I would like to thank everyone for the support, guidance, and belief in me. Getting my first win is very important and I could not have done it without the support. I hope that this win can be the start of something good for me, and thanks to everyone again for the support.”
Roshaune Lewis drives his first career winner Sudden Flight to victory in the sixth race on Sunday, March 1, 2026.(Photo: Karl Mclarty)
Roshaune Lewis heads to scales after winning his first career race aboard Sudden Flight on Sunday, March 1, 2026. (Photo: Karl Mclarty)
