Amber Riddell wins NZ apprentice premiership

With well over 800 rides to her name this season, Amber Riddell has been the country’s most active jockey, and her hard work has been rewarded by taking out the National Apprentice Jockeys’ Premiership.

While there are still two days left to go in the season, Riddell’s 18-win lead is insurmountable, and the Palmerston North rider is rapt to achieve her season goal in convincing fashion.

“I am really pleased with how the whole season has gone,” Riddell said. “My goal for the season was to win the premiership, so I am really glad to have achieved it.”

Riddell has tallied 78 wins and more than $2.2 million to date this season, placing her in third place in the overall jockeys’ premiership, and while each win has been meaningful, there are a couple of clear highlights.

“Winning the Gore Guineas (Listed, 1200m) on Better Shared was really special because it was my first Listed win,” Riddell said. “Winning the Southern Alps ($350,000, 1500m) with Toa Haka was also special as it is a big money race.”

Riddell hasn’t been shy of hopping on a plane to travel around the country in search of riding opportunities, and she has been particularly rewarded in the South Island.