Five Jockeys Nominated For Most Improved In 2025 Award

Five riders have been shortlisted for the Most Improved Jockey 2025 Award:

Ian ‘Dolly Baby’ Spence

Tajay Suckoo

Emelio McLean

Richie Shakes

Demar Williams

APPRENTICES RISING

Four of the nominees—Suckoo, McLean, Shakes, and Williams—are apprentices who only received their licences in December 2024. The apprentices’ rapid ascent in the sport has been noteworthy, with each making a strong impression in their first full year of competition.

SPENCE’S TURNAROUND

Standing apart from the apprentices is veteran jockey Ian Spence, the sole long-standing rider among the nominees. Spence endured a barren 2024, failing to secure a single win. Yet in 2025, he staged a resurgence, notching 11 victories. Even more striking was his leap in earnings: from a modest $111,000 in 2024 to over $9 million in 2025—an approximate increase of 8,000 per cent. His revival underscores the resilience and determination that define seasoned professionals.

WILLIAMS LEADS THE PACK

Among the apprentices, Demar Williams has emerged as the standout performer. After managing just one win in 2024, Williams exploded onto the scene in 2025 with 44 victories, finishing fourth overall in the jockeys’ championship. His rise places him at the forefront of this year’s nominees and highlights the depth of talent among the new generation.

The shortlist reflects two compelling narratives: the apprentices who have burst onto the racing stage with immediate impact, and the seasoned Spence, whose revival embodies perseverance and grit. While Williams’ numbers command attention, Spence’s transformation from winless to millions in stakes is equally extraordinary.