Paul Ramsay, the convenor of the Racing Commission’s Jockeys’ School, is optimistic that the newly licensed apprentices will continue to improve as they gain more experience on race days.
On Saturday, January 4, 2025, two of the graduating apprentices, Javier Sybble and Tajay Suckoo, made notable achievements by securing their first wins. Sybble led Town Star to a thrilling victory in a maiden condition race for four-year-olds and upwards over 7 furlongs, while Suckoo on Rapida battled fiercely against fellow graduate Roshaune Lewis on Big Pop in the seventh race.
With their successes, Suckoo and Sybble joined Richie Shakes, Demar Williams, and Emelio McLean as apprentice winners so far.
“I am encouraged with what I am seeing thus far from the licenced apprentices,” Ramsay stated. He emphasized that while he is pleased with their progress, there is still much work to be done. “They are quietly progressing, and that is good, and what has drawn my attention is that they still winning to learn, which is an essential part of growth and development,” he added.
Ramsay mentioned that even though the school has concluded, he remains available for consultation when needed. “I am still in contact with the majority of the recent graduates from the jockeys’ school and still offering my advice. For me, it is a continuous process as learning and guidance never stop,” Ramsay told the Quickgallopja.com website.
