SA Horseracing recently took time out to find out more about Cole Dicken who is a 4th year Apprentice at the South African Jockey Academy.

Give your top memory of being an apprentice thus far.

Getting my first winner. It was on an apprentice race day so all the apprentices were there. As I was walking back to the jockey room they all came outside to congratulate me. Best moment so far.

What advice would you give to your 15 year old self?
Join the South African Jockey Academy. NOW.

Do you have any family connections to racing? If yes please elaborate.
No, I am the first in my family to be involved in any kind of sport professionally.

What is your favourite meal?
Any one of my mom’s home cooked meal.

If you didn’t become a jockey what do you think you would have become?
Seeing that I was accepted at a few universities for video technology, architecture and engineering. I wouldn’t mind doing any of those. Architecture would suit me best.

Why is the SA Jockey Academy the best place to learn to become a jockey?
In my opinion, it because they have ex-jockeys as riding masters so they actually know how to ride and have experience in race riding, so they know what they are doing. Also, there is so much in place to assist the apprentices in all they need.

How did you get involved in becoming an apprentice?
Ever since I was introduced to the sport by Anthony Delpech.

Is there any special traits or requirements one needs for the profession?
Hard work. Dedication. Good manners. Persistence. This is the type of sport that demands your very best every single day.

How do you keep fit physically and mentally?
By riding almost everyday. Working on the equicizer every chance I get. Watching my previous races finding out what I did wrong or could have done differently.

Who, if anyone, has inspired you in racing?
Like everyone knows already. Anthony Delpech.

Where is your favourite racetrack?
Turffontein Racecourse as I have ridden most of my winners there.

What advice would give someone keen in getting involved in becoming an apprentice?
Be prepared for anything. You will be working with animals and anything can happen at any time. Be patient and always show initiative.

How many winner have you had to date?
48 winners so far.