Warren Kennedy is certainly making the most of the good grounding he has enjoyed. The former champion apprentice owes much of his achievements to his father Terence (himself a former jockey), who has been a true source of inspiration. Warren has however developed his own riding style and has now proven himself as a competent rider. Trainers should should take advantage of his talents especially when looking for a lightweight jockey.

Where do you live? Glenwood, Durban.

What car do you drive? A Golf 3.

When or how did you first get involved in racing? My father Terence was a jockey so I was around horses from a very young age. I joined the academy in 1995.

Tell us about your family`s association with racing. My father was apprenticed to top trainer Fred Rickaby and he then rode for trainer Gary Rich`s father, Des. When he gave up riding he became a trainer for Mr. Aldo Scribante in Port Elizabeth.

Is your father, Terence, still involved? He takes great interest in my career; he phones me after races and we discuss my mistakes and so on and so forth. He has his own small business now.

Who has influenced your riding style and career to date? My father thought me about how important it is to be well balanced but my riding style is my own. I`ve also learnt a lot by watching top jockeys such as Kevin Shea, Piere Strydom and Robbie Fradd.
Did you ever consider an alternate career and did you have any other options earlier on in your life? I did consider studying law but once I joined the Academy I knew that I really wanted to be a jockey.

Tell us about your jockey/trainer relationship. I currently ride for Mr Claassen in Port Elizabeth. It is very important for jockeys and trainers to have a good understanding. Trainers know their horses and their input is very valuable. Teamwork is very important in achieving success in racing.

Tell us about your first winning ride (horse, trainer and track). My first win was the Lady`s Pendant Stakes aboard Coded Missile at Fairview for Mr. Claassen.

What comes into play after a jockey realises that he cannot ride a horse to instructions because the race has panned out differently? Once you find that you cannot ride to instructions you must use your own initiative, and give the horse every opportunity to win.

What are your impressions on S.A. racing now, compared to what it was and what it can be? Our racing is definitely moving in the right direction but we have a long way to go to meet international standards.

Any advice for the public? Study form, go to the track and get a close look at the horses in the parade ring. Also watch them canter down to the start.

Any injuries? Yes, I dislocated my shoulder and also fractured my wrist.

What are your impressions on the merit rating system? The system is designed to give all horses an equal chance of winning and does give weaker horses a chance to earn. There still seem to be question marks over the implementation of the system.

What has been your best days racing? I won four races in a row as an apprentice in Port Elizabeth.

What weight can you ride at? 50kgs.

What do you think contributes to a successful stable? Harmony and working together, communication is very important.

What do you like to do outside of racing, any hobbies? I enjoy playing soccer and cricket; watching all sports and I also enjoy running.

What changes would you like to see in racing? I would like to see more people on-course.

What is your favourite/least favourite characteristic of the racing game? My favourite is being a natural lightweight and not having to waste. My least favourite is the way people �attack` each other in the racing game.

What are the makings of a champion racehorse? I like a horse with a keen eye. He/she must also have a big heart and they must enjoy their racing.

Which racecourses have you ridden at and do you have any likes or dislikes in this respect? I have ridden in Durban, Cape Town, Port Elizabeth and Kimberley. I have obviously done most of my learning in Port Elizabeth. Fairview racecourse has taught me patience because of its long straight and Arlington has taught me pace and to position myself accordingly.

Would you like to become a trainer one day? No, not really. I have seen what trainers have to put up with and when I retire one day, I would like it to be definite.

You are in good form at the moment, is it easy to stay confident and maintain your fitness? I do not lack fitness as I do a lot of riding and I am a very confident person.

So far in your career, which is the best horse that you have been associated? Coastal News is very versatile and I rate him very highly. He could be the surprise package of the winter season.

Share an interesting, amusing or even embarrassing racing incident that you may have experienced. I was once caught moving to the tune of a song by Tellytrack`s cameras behind the pens. Everyone saw it and had something to say afterwards.

You are not riding at Fairview (16/05/03), could you help punters would some info on your stables runners?

Race 5: All Three A King � is well and seems to be coming back to form.

Race 6: Proud Prince � very useful stayer and is our best chance on the day.

What are your ambitions? To stay in the saddle for as long as possible and I suppose, as is every jockey`s dream, to one day become a champion.