Paddock Stakes Thriller
Grant Van Niekerk’s unbridled joy at riding his first Gr1 winner was tempered by a seven day ban for failing to ensure that he did not cause interference
12th January 2015
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Grant Van Niekerk’s unbridled joy at riding his first Gr1 winner was tempered by a seven day ban for failing to ensure that he did not cause interference
The last time the feat was recorded was in 1997 in Ohio – but the Cape jockey did it in the same silks…
‘When you are a young rider starting out like Grant is, titles count for a lot on your CV. This is particularly so when you look for an opportunity to ride abroad. That is what overseas jurisdictions look for’
It has not always been a bed of roses for Van Niekerk though and the youngster has learnt the hard way . He has incurred suspensions for dangerous riding, dropping his hands and also a weight bag mix up at various times in a short career that has had its ups and downs
The Jockey’s Charity Dash, in aid of the oldest child welfare organisation in SA, will be run at Kenilworth on Saturday.
Leading Cape trainer Mike Bass has appointed Grant van Niekerk as stable jockey
