The Apprentices – Progress, Losing The ‘Bug’

Several standout jockeys from the graduating class of 2024 have been making serious waves since officially receiving their riding licences in late December 2024.  

Among the most prominent young achievers fuelling this new wave of talent are Tajay Suckoo, Richie Shakes, both hailing from the Lionel Town area of Clarendon, Demar Williams, Jaheim Anderson, and Shaheem Gordon.

To understand the trajectory of these young riders, it helps to understand the weight allowances ("the bug") they carry:

• 0 to 9 wins: Apprentices start with a 4 kg claim.
• 10 to 29 wins: The claim drops to 3 kg.
• 30 to 59 wins: The claim drops to 2 kg.
• 60+ wins: The rider loses their apprentice allowance entirely.
• Note: Female riders are granted a permanent, lifetime claim of 2 kg.

Leading the charge among his peers is Richie Shakes, who has already piloted 61 winners. As of Saturday, July 11, Shakes stands alone as the only graduate from his class of 30 to have officially lost his weight claim. Currently sitting at number six in the 2026 Jockey Championship with 24 wins this year, his overall talent is undeniable.

However, life without the "bug" has proven challenging. Since losing his weight allowance, Shakes’ frequent visits to the winner’s enclosure have noticeably slowed, yielding just a single victory over the last month and a half. Despite this temporary dry spell, Shakes possesses the polished skill set required to rebound and solidify his place among the elite.

Next in line is Demar Williams, who sits on the cusp of a major milestone with 59 career wins. A single victory will push him to the 60-win mark, stripping him of his apprentice claim.

Much like Shakes, Williams has experienced a recent dip in momentum. Yet, currently holding the ninth spot in the 2026 top ten standings with 14 wins for the year, he has repeatedly proven he has the mettle and grit to fight through the slump and find his way back to the winner's circle.

While others have hit a temporary plateau, Tajay Suckoo is capitalizing on massive momentum—largely driven by a potent new alliance with champion trainer Anthony Nunes.

Suckoo has accumulated 54 career victories to date. He is enjoying a stellar 2026 campaign, currently occupying the number four spot in the jockey championship thanks to a superb haul of 35 winners this year alone.

Of the list of 30 from the 2024 graduating class, nine are still with a single victory.