Canberra Racing Premiership set for thrilling finale
The 2024/2025 Canberra Racing Premierships reach their finale this Friday at Thoroughbred Park, with a season of outstanding performances culminating in a decisive day across all four major titles: Trainer, Jockey, Apprentice Jockey and Horse of the Year.
Leading the Trainer’s Premiership is the team of Barbara Joseph, Paul and Matt Jones (JJR Racing), holding a clear lead with 17 wins, seven ahead of their nearest rival.
Co-Trainer Paul Jones credits their success to consistency and a strategic focus on Canberra racing.
“We haven’t changed much, really.” Jones said. “We’ve had a good season with a lot of horses we’ve purchased ourselves, and we’re really focused on racing here in Canberra. We’ve got great staff, and we work hard.”
“In the last two months, we made a conscious effort to target Canberra when we saw how close the premiership was. My brother Matthew is always watching the standing closely, so it is very special for us.”
“Our highlight was on John McGrath Auto Group Black Opal Stakes Day. We had three runners and three winners, including Zouatica’s win in the Listed Seears Workwear National Sprint, which was incredibly personal and emotional for us. We’ve been chasing that win for a long time.”
In the overall Jockey’s Premiership, Rebecca Bronett Prag is tied at the top with 13 wins, needing just one more to move clear of Jean Van Overmeire and claim her first senior title.
She also holds an eight-win lead in the Apprentice Jockeys Premiership, making her the standout young rider of the season. Notably, of the top 10 Apprentices in the current standings, 9 females lead the way for the next generation.
“It might sound boring, but the key has been hard work. I ride a lot of trackwork and always try to help the trainers that support me.” Bronett Prag said.
“My boss Keith Dryden has been amazing, and my manager Andrew Northridge has worked hard getting me good rides. It’s been a slow process, but it’s paying off now,”
“It would be fantastic to win the Premiership here at my home track. That’s been the goal from day one and would be a great reward for the people who’ve supported me.”
“I’m originally from Sweden but have lived in Australia for 10 years now. I’ve worked with amazing trainers and had the chance to travel a lot with horses. I love it here in Canberra and I’m so grateful for the opportunities I’ve had.”
Bronett Prag would be the first apprentice since Billy Owen in 2018/2019 to win the Senior Jockeys Title.
The Horse of the Year award looks set to go to La Signora Dane, who leads the standings on 20 points, with Fangela and Icebreaker both on 15 points but not racing in the final meeting.
Friday’s meeting promises a thrilling finish to an exciting season at Thoroughbred Park, highlighting the talent, determination, and racing excellence that have defined the year.
Media Contact: Robbie Ringland, Head of Commercial & Communications, Canberra Racing Club M: 0439 832 972
Becci Sciberras, Marketing & Communications Coordinator, Canberra Racing Club
Photo - Bradley Photos