Apprentice Academy SA finalises National Apprentice Race Series team

The Racing SA Apprentice Academy has finalised a team of five for the National Apprentice Race Series (NARS) which kicks off at the Thomas Farms Racecourse Murray Bridge on Wednesday, March 20.

Caitlyn Munro will ride the opening leg on debut for South Australia. Four days later Caitlin Tootell travels to Tasmania to race on March 24.

Maggie Collett has also been rewarded for her career best form riding the Western Australian leg at Ascot on April 3.

Jade Doyle races at Fannie Bay on April 12 for the second year in a row. And Rochelle Milnes has the responsibility of riding the final leg on April 17 at Doomben Racecourse.

“It’s a big honour to be chosen to represent your State and we are really excited to see who will step up to the next level,” said Racing SA Apprentice Academy Manager Briony Moore.

“NARS is Australia’s premier apprentice-only race series and showcases the riding talents of the country’s most exciting young jockeys.

“We’ve chosen the metro legs on form and have also taken into consideration our apprentices’ dedication and application.

“Rochelle has definitely earnt her spot this year. She’s doing amazing things here in South Australia so no doubt she’s going to be hard to beat at Doomben as long as we get the right horse picks.

“Caitlyn Munro’s had a few injuries throughout her short career and hopefully being selected is a confidence booster for her.

“Caitlin Tootell’s hard work is starting to pay off. Her interaction with trainers and owners in particular has improved and she’s riding the best she ever has.

“Maggie is riding a wave of form at the moment so really excited to see what she can do, and Jade is undoubtedly one of our leading dirt track and country riders,” said Moore.

SA has the best record of all the States in the series having won NARS seven times. The Croweaters last brought home the trophy in 2022.

“Queensland took home the NARS Crown last year and it’s not going to be easy to take it off them but I know for sure that this team is in great form and well and truly up to the task.

“NARS is one of those series where you get to network and form really good connections with interstate trainers and riders that you wouldn’t normally have the chance to meet,” said Briony.