Jockeys Francis, Foster reach milestones at Caymanas Park
It was a day to remember for jockeys Paul Francis and Tevin Foster at Caymanas Park on Saturday as both riders achieved significant milestones in their careers, adding to their impressive reputations in the industry.
Francis reached a major milestone, securing his 800th career win in the second race aboard Another Wave, trained by Adrian Prince.
Another Wave made one move to win the Restricted Allowance IV contest by 12 lengths over six and a half furlongs (1,300m). The five-year-old bay mare won ahead of
Aava Jaelyn (Raddesh Roman) and Who Doneit (Foster) in a time of 1:22.3 (24.3 x 50.0 x 1:15.4).
This achievement by Francis cemented his position as one of the most successful riders in the sport.
“The feeling is great to win 800 races,” Francis told the Jamaica Observer.
“I mean it is hard work and dedication and I just happy for this. I must thank the owners, trainers, fellow riders, grooms, fans, family members, and everyone for their support throughout the years.”
Earlier in the day, Foster recorded his 300th career win in the opening event, riding
Absolute Blue to victory for trainer Ryan Darby.
Absolute Blue’s victory came in a three-year-old and upward Optional Claiming ($250,000-$200,000) event that included six-year-olds and upward (non-winners of three) and native-bred five-year-olds and upward (maidens) over five furlongs (1,000m) round.
Absolute Blue defeated Conundrum (Raddesh Roman) and Noble Impulse (Oshane Nugent) by a head in a time 1:05.1 (26.1 x 51.3).
Foster then went on to complete a three-timer on the 11-race card when he won aboard
Atomic Energy for Prince in the sixth race and Password for DaCosta in the final event.
Racing continues next weekend with races on Saturday and Sunday. The 98th running of the Jamaica St Leger Classic will take place on Saturday.