SA Horseracing recently took time out to find out more about the up and coming Yuzae Ramzan who is an apprentice from the South African Jockey Academy.

Questionnaire:
Do you have any family connections to racing? If yes, please elaborate.
No I don’t have any family connections.

How did you get involved in becoming an apprentice?
I used to go to Fairview racecourse on the weekends with my father and took an interesting in racing first and then becoming a jockey. I applied to become an apprentice in Port Elizabeth, attended to assessments and interview and was accepted into the Academy.

How long have you had aspirations to become a jockey?
For quite a long time, from the age of eight years old.

Are there any special traits or requirements one needs for the profession?
You have to be determined and mentally strong, racing has its up and downs, so you need to have the ability to keep moving forward!

How do you keep fit physically and mentally?
I go to gym twice a week at the Academy, I also ride a lot of work, 7 days a week. You also need to make the most of your down time to switch off from racing and relax!

Who, if anyone, has inspired you in racing?
Brandon Lerena, he taught me a lot at track riding work for Mr Dixon and always encouraged me to do my best. Brandon also has a powerful riding style that is very effective. Lately Calvin Habib has also taught me a lot and inspired me to do better as a rider.

Who is your favourite jockey and why?
Calvin Habib is my favourite jockey, he always has a positive attitude towards racing, is always willing to give advice to and help the apprentices. He is also a very nice guy with impeccable manners and is a good role model.

What are the qualities or attributes that an apprentice needs to have in order to be successful in this game?
Hard work and being able to learn from your mistakes so that you don’t make them again.

What race do you aspire to win, both locally and nationally?
The Tsogo Sun Sprint and the Sun Met are the races I would like to win!

Where is your favourite racetrack?
The Vaal racecourse, it’s very scenic and beautiful, I like riding at the Vaal because I enjoy the long straight and I have ridden a double there.


What would you like to see changed in racing?
I would like to see more people coming to watch races and to do this racing needs to be more exciting for young people. There needs to be a vibe on the racecourse that will attract young people to attend. There also needs to be better advertising and marketing.

What advice would give someone keen in getting involved in becoming an apprentice?
You need to be committed to becoming jockey and love what you. If you not going to give this 150% then consider another career.

How many winners have you had to date?
I have had 8 winners so far!

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?
I had to learn to how pace a horse in a race so that you give your horse the best chance of being competitive. I ride a lot of work for Mr Roberts and he taught me a lot about pace and how to make a horse settle in a race.

Where do you see yourself in the future in this racing industry?
I want to be a competitive jockey in South Africa and would like to ride in Mauritius if I get the opportunity.

What do you think of the SAJA and the work they do for you?
The Academy is very good, the Jockey Coaches teach you a lot about riding and are very helpful once you begin race riding. The Academic Staff are excellent and always help you to achieve your best marks possible. Mr Harry in particular always goes out of his way to help us.