A South African Jockey has taken New Zealand racing by storm in his first full season on that country. The former champion jockey of South Africa, Warren Kennedy is looking forward to a less demanding riding schedule next season after clinching the New Zealand Jockeys’ Premiership. With one meeting remaining at Tauranga on Wednesday, Kennedy secured the title with 139 wins, including 17 at Group or Listed level, earning nearly $6 million in 2023/24.

“I’ve always aimed for this, and I’m thrilled to have achieved it,” Kennedy expressed to Love Racing NZ. 

Kennedy, who previously won two premierships and an apprentices’ title in South Africa, plans to adopt a lighter schedule next season after claiming the New Zealand title.

“I won’t be taking a long break, just a few days off here and there in August,” he noted. “This season has been tough on my body and mind.”

Comparing his experience, Kennedy said, “In South Africa, the racecourses are close to airports, making travel easy. Here, I’ve spent a lot more time driving to remote courses. Next season, I’ll focus more on carnivals and Group races.”

Kennedy moved to New Zealand in October 2022, followed by his wife Barbara, now a trainer at Byerley Park, and daughters Jamie Lee and Ryleigh.

“It’s been a great season, thanks to a lot of support,” he said. “A big thanks to everyone and especially to my family. Their support is why I want to spend more time with them and travel less.”

Highlighting his season, Kennedy mentioned two special days: winning seven races on New Year’s Day at Pukekohe and winning the Guineas (Gr.1, 1600m) on Crocetti for Daniel Nakhle, who helped facilitate his move from South Africa.

Crocetti, trained by Danny Walker and Aaron Tata, had an exceptional three-year-old season with six consecutive wins, including the Gr.1 New Zealand 2000 Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton.

“He’ll start his run at Ruakaka, but I’ll be at the winter carnival in Christchurch, so I won’t ride him,” Kennedy said. “He’ll likely go straight to the Tarzino Trophy (Gr.1, 1400m) where I’ll join him again.”

After recently trialing Crocetti, Kennedy remarked, “He’s grown in confidence and filled out his frame. He seems to have improved nicely.”