The Racing SA Apprentice Academy will feature three fresh faces when the 2022-23 thoroughbred racing season commences.
Caitlyn Munro, Caitlin Tootell and Rochelle Milnes are a part of the new intake of young riders in the academy which has aligned with other track riding programs to help the next generation make the steps required to start a career in the saddle.
All three have varying backgrounds in racing.
Munro, 24 is a member of the David Jolly stable at Goolwa and spent time away form the industry before returning with a focus on becoming a jockey.
“I’m over the moon,’’ Munro said.
“I’ve been trying to get in (to the academy) for the last year and half, it’s a huge relief,’’ she said.
Jolly said Munro has been a part of his stable for several years and really developed her ability in the saddle over the past year.
“I met Caitlyn when she was still at school,’’ Jolly said.
“The way she’s developed, her knowledge of the industry, she’s ready to have a red hot go at it,’’ he said.
The Tootell name is no stranger to SA racing and Caitlin will learn from one in the best in the business apprenticed to Adelaide Cup winning jockey Shayne Cahill, the first dual licenced trainer/jockey in SA to have an apprentice in their care.
“I’m really excited, it’s been a long time coming,’’ Tootell, 24 said.
Cahill said the ability to teach the riding craft firsthand would be a huge asset in the development of Tootell as a rider.
“The fact that we’re riding together all the time is a big plus,’’ Cahill said.
“She’s improved a lot in the three years she’s been here.
“She’s a natural, she has a lovely seat and nice hands. I’ve got high hopes for her,’’ he said.
Milnes, 20 will be appreciate to John Dunn and Krystal Bishop where she has been a key member of their stable who operate from Oakbank and Port Lincoln through the summer.
“I’m really looking forward to experiencing and learning,’’ Milnes said.
“I’m excited to take this opportunity with both hands,’’ she said.