At just 23, Sima Mxothwa is proving that persistence pays off. The South African-born apprentice, who was once repeatedly turned down by his home country’s jockey academy, is now making headlines in New Zealand — and today he delivered one of his most polished rides yet.

Riding at Trentham in a Benchmark 75 Handicap, Mxothwa made full use of his 3kg claim aboard Ma Te Wa, dictating terms in a race that lacked any real speed. The front-running strategy paid off handsomely, with Ma Te Wa holding off late challengers to score.

“He judged the pace perfectly,” was the sentiment coming from commentator on the day. Mxothwa was clearly thrilled with the result. Trainer Robbie Patterson was equally pleased, describing Ma Te Wa as “a smart type” and noting that the horse “beat some good ones today.”

For Mxothwa, the victory is another step forward in a journey that began back in South Africa, where racing was part of his daily life. “My dad used to work as a strapper and my brother is a professional jockey, Louis,” he explained in a prior interview with Loveracing NZ. “I grew up around horses and I had a passion for them — I always dreamed of becoming a jockey.”

After being rejected several times from South Africa’s jockey academy, he finished school and was given a lifeline by former jockey Donavan Mansour, who offered him the chance to apprentice in New Zealand through the New Zealand Equine Academy.

“I came to New Zealand just over a year ago and I’ve never looked back,” Mxothwa said. “I enjoy what I do, and days like today show that all the hard work is paying off.”

With a smart Trentham ride now on his record and growing confidence in the saddle, Mxothwa is quickly becoming a name to watch as the 2025/26 New Zealand racing season unfolds.

Sima has had 12 wins from his 107 starts to date in New Zealand.