Ben Price has been crowned Dux of the Racing SA Apprentice Academy for the second straight year.
The 21-year-old, who outrode his claim in December, is quickly establishing himself as one of the top jockeys in South Australia.
“Despite dealing with tragedy off the track Ben’s work ethic and consistency has been a stand-out,” said Apprentice Academy Manager Briony Moore.
“He works incredibly hard and has been grinding away to set up a good solid base to get started in his senior riding life.
“Not only that but there’s been a lot of growth personally. He’s had so much to deal with losing his mum Belinda, and his cousin Charlie as well.
“In the past Ben has had lots of emotional highs and lows and he’s really been able to stabilise those emotions which has helped with his riding.
“He’s got the right support around him – great friends and a great trainer in Will Clarken that have helped him have a great year in the saddle.
“There’s been barely a suspension and he finished with 66 winners for the year including riding a listed winner for Tony McEvoy in the Oaklands Plate on a day where he also rode a treble.
“When you reflect on the past twelve months that Ben’s had there’s been a lot of growth personally and we’re proud of what he’s managed to achieve,” said Moore.
Ben earned the prestigious Dux honour just ahead of his good mate and runner-up Jacob Opperman who rode close to 50 winners in the calendar year.
“Jacob has worked hard to establish himself closer to town at Murray Bridge where he’s building strong relationships with a number of trainers and he also travels to Gawler for track work once a week,” said Moore.
“His last three months have been impressive and I think he is reaping the benefits of not having to travel so frequently from Mount Gambier.
“He’s just one metro win away from outriding his claim and no doubt he’ll be a top rider in this State for many years to come,” she said.
Rochelle Milnes won two awards – she was presented with the Endeavour and Sportsmanship Award by the Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing, Katrine Hildyard MP. The 21-year-old was also honoured with the Rising Star award for best 2nd and 3rd year Apprentice.
“During my time in this job I’m not sure I’ve seen someone who’s progressed so quickly and I know Rochelle appreciates the support she’s had and gets a bit embarrassed by it,” said Moore.
“Rochelle’s an allrounder. She’s got personality, riding ability and a bit of business acumen. If you take Rochelle off a horse she’ll want to know why.
“Just to see someone enjoy their riding so much and that takes everything in her stride has been amazing.
“Her willingness to give that little bit more to racing and not just take a wage has also been great to see. Whatever you ask Rochelle to do in terms of promotion or supporting owners – she’ll do it,” said Moore.
Other award winners on the night included Maggie Collett who won the SA Racehorse Owners Association Award and a Special Achievement Award for her two wins on TAB Finals Day, while Chelsey Reynolds collected the Simone Montgomerie Encouragement award for 1st year Apprentices. Chelsey also had the best winning strike rate at 16%
Sheriden Tomlinson was voted by the public as having the Ride of the Year aboard Falaise for Stuart Padman in the Benchmark 62 Handicap 1400m in April. Alana Livesey had the longest-priced winner after saluting on Send It at Murray Bridge at $101.
Hong Kong Jockey Club rider Nichola Yuen also featured winning the Caitlyn Forrest Memorial Award.
