What first drew you to horse racing, and how did your passion develop into a professional career?
I watched On the Track or Off, a Hong Kong drama series released in 2001 when I was a kid. From then, I was mesmerized by the horse racing industry. I loved animals and playing games like Need For Speed – car racing was one of my favourite games. I guess that is where I have the best of both worlds.
What has been the most rewarding moment of your journey as a jockey so far?
Getting my 2 times Champion Apprentice title in 2023 and 2024, being the first female in 180years of history of getting the championship title.
Can you walk us through a typical day in your training and preparation routine?
Start work at 6am, trackwork at least 8 – 10 horses in the morning. Afternoon, would be my self-training, either to hit the gym or bouldering gym, sometimes would also take up stretching classes like yoga or pliates. Night, I would study the course I am currently taking – Veterinary Wellness Care.
What were some of the early obstacles you faced breaking into the racing scene?
I entered the racing scene without any connections nor experiences, I wasn’t even able to get pass STAR Program – a 6 months horse riding course at STCRC after morning work at the stables. Luckily, I had some supports and able to get my trackrider license, however, I had a freak accident at the track where I fractured my right ankle, with 3 broken bones.
How do you mentally and physically prepare for high-stakes race days?
Consistency is the main goal in this field, where by you have to maintain and keeping fit all the time. To be mentally strong, all comes down to experience with all the things that you have been through and overcome. Otherwise, sweets and chocolates are always the best remedies but of course must keep weight in check.
What has been your biggest challenge during your racing career, and how did you overcome it?
I think getting trust and support from someone who have zero connections and experiences and especially as a female were quite difficult. As there are already many great and strong jockeys out there with plenty of experiences, it would be so difficult to get rides. Just have to keep asking around if there is any available rides, also thanksfully to the trainers that I am working for are always supportive of me.
Have there been moments of self-doubt, and how did you stay motivated during those times?
Surely self-doubt all times, like doubted if I can even ride horses, as I bolted so many times before, crashed the wall and rails. I just kept hang on and move on from those emotions, as Singapore is a fast-paced country, we got to just keep going and not give up.
How important is the relationship between a jockey and the horse, and how do you build that trust?
Very important to have good relationship with the horse, as horsemanship is the most important part of this job. You just got to use your feeling and understand the horse temperament, having a great hands where they feel at ease with you on top, always talk to them and pat them when they have done their job.
What skills or traits do you think have helped you succeed in such a competitive and demanding sport?
Perseverance and Resilience I guess. Staying happy and working hard to push through, enjoying what I like to do and doing what I like.
What advice would you give to other aspiring jockeys—especially those who may not come from traditional racing backgrounds?
Work hard and gym hard, everything will come naturally, just don’t give up.
