South African champion jockey Gavin Lerena came through his first two Hong Kong meetings last Sunday and Wednesday unscathed. While he only managed a fourth from five rides on Sunday, he produced two thirds from four rides today and says that he feels that once he gets to know the form things will be a lot better.
Gavin Lerena – stoked to be in Hong Kong with his family
According to reports by his Dad Tex, Gavin, his wife Vikki and son Ashton have all settled in well.
“They are staying in an apartment in Sha Tin overlooking the racecourse and which is provided by the HKJC. The lifestyle is excellent, but he admits the weather is colder than he expected, so that caught him by surprise,” said Tex.
Andrew Hawkins wrote on the South China Morning Post that the South African ace created a big impression in December, and he hopes that he can relocate to Hong Kong on a permanent basis
Longines International Jockeys’ Championship winner Gavin Lerena hopes that a two-month stint in Hong Kong, which starts on Sunday, will lead to a full-time contract and the chance to emulate some of his childhood idols.
The South African jockey, who defeated some of the world’s best riders when taking the Happy Valley series during international week in December, returned to Sha Tin on Tuesday with his family in tow as he looks to build on that career-making success – and he couldn’t have been more clear about his goals for the stint.
“I definitely want to base myself here full-time,” the 30-year-old said. “But to do that, you need a base here. You need support and to build up relationships. I will be out to try and do that.”
Gavin Lerena – receives his trophy in December
“Growing up, some of my heroes were successful here, in particular Bartie Leisher. South African jockeys do well here – look at Felix Coetzee, Anthony Delpech, the Marcus brothers and of course Douglas Whyte. Hopefully, I can join them – I’m here to ride winners.”
Lerena has already forged a reputation as one of his country’s best riders, winning nine Group One races and breaking records before adding his first championship last year, but the jockey says that his IJC win remains his career highlight.
“December was special,” he said. “I’d never ridden at a venue like Happy Valley – it was a fantastic experience in front of an exciting crowd. I can’t wait to be doing it each week.”
Part report – thanks to South China Morning Post
