Saturday, September 21, 2024, will be etched forever in the memory of champion jockey Reyan Lewis. On this momentous day, Lewis achieved a remarkable milestone, securing his 300th career win aboard Anthony Nunes-conditioned Playfair.

The 300th win came in the fifth race, a Restricted Allowance contest for native-bred three-year-olds (non-winners of two) and imported three-year-olds and upward (maidens) over six and a half furlongs (1,300m).

Playfair, with Lewis in the saddle, delivered a telling performance, crossing the finish line 3 3/4 lengths ahead of stablemate Smart Trick (Omar Walker) and Zulu Warrior (Tevin Foster). The winning time was 1:21.1 (23.0 x 47.4 x 1:15.0).

The champion jockey’s emotions overflowed as he celebrated this hard-earned achievement.

“I’m feeling good, really good,” Lewis exclaimed.

“Reaching 300 wins is a different kind of feeling. I’ve been a jockey who has won many races, but this milestone is special. I’m thankful for everyone’s continuous support. Thanks to trainer Anthony Nunes and connections for this ride,” Lewis said.

He added: “Hard work, dedication, and discipline have been key to my success. I couldn’t have achieved this without the support of my family, owners, trainers, fellow jockeys, grooms, and everyone that is behind me.”

As Lewis looks to the future, he remains focused on riding more winners.

“I just want to stay strong, keep on working, have faith and be focused,” Lewis said.

Lewis then shared his insights on Playfair’s performance.

“This race wasn’t a particularly tough one,” Lewis noted.

“Playfair had already broken his maiden ahead of several horses in the field, so I knew he had the potential to excel. My strategy was simple: get a good break, position him well, and ask him to give his all when I was comfortable. And that’s exactly what he did — he gave me everything he had,” he said.