SA Horseracing recently took time out to find out more about Kabelo Matsunyane who is an apprentice from the Gauteng Jockeys Academy.

Do you have any family connections to racing? If yes please elaborate.
No I do not, but my father has bought in to a few horse since I've joined the academy.

Do you have any family connections to racing? If yes please elaborate.
No, I have no relations to anyone in racing. I am the only one associated with racing in my family.

How did you get involved in becoming an apprentice?
I was completing my Matric and attended a career expo with my school when I was approached by the South African Jockey Academy to come have a look at their career expo stand. It was evident in my physic that I was small built and becoming a jockey would be a career option for me. I dived right in, completed the relevant forms, attended the assessments and was fortunate enough to be accepted into the academy.

How long have you had aspirations to become a jockey?
It was a career path I knew nothing about. It was only after the career expo that I began showing interest in the industry. I did research and became more interested in the sport so, I began following the sport and watching races which influenced my decision in pursuing this career.

Is there any special traits or requirements one needs for the profession?
Determination and willing to put in the hard work. You also need to be mentality and physically strong to be able to push through all the obstacles of weight management, early mornings of work riding and traveling but the rewards are always worth the challenges.

How do you keep fit physically and mentally?
I try to keep a balance by exercising regularly, eating proper and work riding daily.

Who, if anyone, has inspired you in racing?
I would have to say that every trainer gives me the inspiration to get on a horse. When I see the hard work and effort that is put into training a racehorse it gives me the motivation to saddle up and give the race my best shot.

Who is your favorite jockey and why?
Mr Piere Strydom. He has been one of the biggiest inspirations and role model in my career this far. His hard work and delication have allowed him to ride at such top level in the industry and achieving goals such as winning the Vodacom Durban July and riding abroad. I admire his work ethic and would like to aspire to be as successful as him one day.

What are the qualities or attributes that an apprentice needs to have in order to be successful in this game?
I would definitely say that a successful apprentice jockey should have the attributes of being able to follow direction and take criticism constructively. Be willing to always learn from the senior jockeys and remain respectful and humble always.

What race do you aspire to win, both locally and nationally?
It would definitely be winning the richest race in South Africa which is the Vodacom Durban July and then setting my sights in winning the Dubai World Cup.

Where is your favourite racetrack?
My favourite track would have to be the beautiful Big T.

What would you like to see changed in racing?
It would be great to see more innovation in the industry.

What advice would give a someone keen in getting involved in becoming an apprentice?
Be prepared to put in the hardwork. Success comes at a price and if you are not willing to make sacrifices and be determined you will find difficulty in this industry.

How many winner have you had to date?
I achieved 60 winners on 9th September 2019 at Flamingo Park aboard Double Deluxe.

Give us an example of what you have learnt about racing riding (or work riding) specific to your technique or weakness that you have worked on successfully?
When I began riding my long legs always made my appearance on a horse look unprofessional but with guidance and practice I am now able to position my body and be comfortable when riding.

Where do you see yourself in the future in this racing industry?
My goals are definitely to be given the opportunity to ride in graded races and win a few of them. I would also like to expand my racing experience by riding abroad.

What do you think of the SAJA and the work they do for you?
SAJA has helped inspired me and helped build a foundation for my career. The consistent training, advice and guidance received from my riding master has allowed me to work hard and push boundaries that I wanted to just give up on. The motivation and discipline have helped me learn responsibility and the importance of hard-work and repect.