Having recently joined Wexford, Jade Goodwin is a new and welcomed addition to the team!
An astute horsewoman and naturally talented rider, she has begun her New Zealand apprentice jockey career under the tutelage of Lance and Andrew.
With a background in horses and a high dose of determination, Jade is a young rider that is destined to go places! She has now had her first New Zealand raceday ride and is looking forward to developing her craft further and chasing success.
We spoke to Jade to find out more about our new team member and to get some insight into her introduction into racing and her proudest racing moments with Wexford so far...
How did you first get involved in the racing industry?
My earliest introduction to racehorses came about through my association with an ex-racehorse that I rode at Pony Club. Leigh Phelan was at the rally and my Mum began chatting with her about me wanting to work with racehorses and potentially become a jockey. Through this conversation, she found out Leigh was the daughter of trainer, Craig Phelan. They exchanged numbers and I started riding at the Rotorua track in the mornings before school. However, I took a break from track riding when I decided to put my focus on to show jumping and working towards the Horse Of The Year show.
After a couple of years, my love for racing and speed on horseback, led me to make the decision to move to England to pursue a career in the industry. I attended the British Racing School, where I had the opportunity to become an apprentice jockey. I had a handful of rides over in the UK, but lacking support, I decided to return back to New Zealand to give my career a real chance. I joined Wexford at the start of this year.
What is your current role at Wexford?
Apprentice Jockey.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I enjoy riding gallops and riding nice horses.
And least?
Not much... The only thing I can think of is putting new sawdust into boxes - it's like a mini work-out!
What has been your proudest racing moment with Wexford?
Since being with Wexford, I have had a couple of proud racing moments that stick out.
The first would have to be having my first raceday ride on a Wexford runner, which was a great buzz!
Lex Rex winning at Avondale and Ozark winning at Matamata, were pretty special moments as well. Especially as I have ridden both those horses almost everyday since I arrived.
Do you have a soft spot for one horse in particular?
I definitely have a soft spot for the Preferment - Miss Remington gelding.
This horse caught my eye from the day I walked into the barn. I ride him most mornings as I get along with him well. He can have his little cheeky moments, which keeps me on my toes!
He has a lovely big stride and I love that he is a quick learner. It makes me happy to see him improving in his work all the time.
One horse in the barn people should keep an eye on over the next few months?
Lex Rex is definitely a horse to keep an eye on. He's a beautiful horse with lots of talent and every gallop / race he just keeps improving. I've had a lot to do with him and I honestly believe he has a big future ahead of him!
What is your favorite thing about Wexford Stables?
Lance and Andrew are great to work for. They are always there helping me to improve my riding (everyday riding and race day rides). The team are great to work with. We all help each other to make sure everything gets done and there is always something to laugh about.