What They Say! – RUJA LAHOE
When did your start your career as a jockey?
I started my career as a jockey on September 8, 2012 but I involved in the sport from a younger age. I was brought into racing by a friend Sean Smellie and after regular visits to the track I got to like horses and so the decision was a relatively easy one for me to make horse racing my profession.
Which horse was your first winner?
My first winner came aboard the Fitzroy Glispie trained Stop A Gap going over 1,400 metres. It was a great feeling winning my first race, it was something I dreamt about and for it to happen was just amazing. On that day I got two rides and I came second by a short head on Saga Boy also for Glispie.
Which horse was your longest odds winner?
My longest odds winner was the Gresford Smith-trained Special Degree at 19-1 over 1,500 metres. This horse should not have gone off at such long odds but nevertheless I really enjoyed that win.
Which is the best horse that you have ridden?
The best horses that I ridden so far are Raging Prospect, Imperial Fortune and Sink The Bismark. Of the three, I would say that Raging Prospect is the best one that I have ridden, when I am riding this horse he runs like a motor bike, just fast.
Which is the best horse that you have seen race at Caymanas Park?
I have seen a lot of talented race horse, but to me I would say that Miracle Man is the best horse that I have seen race at Caymanas Park. Miracle Man won his races impressively, unfortunately he didn’t win the Triple Crown but he went on to win the Superstakes that same year as well going aboard and winning the Caribbean Classic which speaks volume of his talent.
Who has influenced your career the most?
Since I am in the racing industry everyone has been good to me. Trainers, jockeys, grooms, fans, owners, family and friends have supported me well. But I would like to give special thanks to the Waterford community for strong support they have given me. It is appreciated.