Jacey Botes, a promising 17-year-old Grade 11 student, made an impressive first stride at the Vaal today. As a second-year apprentice at the renowned South African Jockey Academy, Jacey's dedication and talent are evident as he booted home his first winner. 

Jacey joined the Academy in January 2023, where he has been honing his skills under the expert tutelage of the Academy Riding Masters. His hard work and perseverance led him to start riding track at the Summerveld Training Centre in August 2023. This marked the beginning of an exciting journey in his apprenticeship.

On March 17th, Jacey had his first ride where he rode JET SPEED, a horse trained by M J Odendaal at Greyville. 

Today, on his 23rd race ride, Jacey achieved a significant accomplishment. He secured his first career win at the Vaal Racecourse in Race 5, riding BUSHVELD, trained by Fabian Habib. This victory is not only a personal triumph for Jacey but also a promising sign of more successes to come in his racing career. It was his first ride for Habib. The battling handicapper no doubt benefitted from the 4kg allowance and Botes did what many could not, getting the filly over the line for only the second time in 20 starts. 

Riding Master in Gauteng, Robert Moore, reported that the boys were having the traditional first race win braai at the Joburg satellite for the apprentices this evening.

Thanks to Robert Moore for the images.