Graduate jockey Holly Watson has jumped strongly out of the starting gates and into a promising career by winning the inaugural Damien Oliver Award.
Holly positioned herself for racing success by claiming the Metro Apprentice of the Year title along with the new award, named for one of the greatest jockeys to come from Western Australia, at the 2023 Apprentice Awards.
Racing and Wagering Western Australia Chief Racing Officer David Hunter said the Damien Oliver Award went beyond excellence on the track to reward an apprentice who showed a dedication to racing along with commitment to ongoing improvement and a positive approach to health, wellbeing and community engagement.
“Damien started his apprenticeship in WA and has gone on to win the grand slam of Australian racing and become an all-time great,” David said.
“His achievements in winning more than 3000 races and holding the Australian record for Group 1 victories make Damien an inspiration to our young local riders and he always has time for the juniors when he comes home for WA racing carnivals.”
Racing Training Manager Sharyn Lancaster said Damien had sent congratulations to Holly for winning the award and she was looking forward to meeting the champion at The Pinnacles spring carnival, where he will finish his riding career.
“As one great career ends, another is just beginning and our training team has high hopes for Holly’s future in racing,” Sharyn said.
“Holly has always been excited to learn as much as possible about riding and the racing industry and has grown in skill and passion throughout her apprenticeship.
“She’s also keen to get involved in community and animal welfare activities. We’re very proud of her.”
Holly tallied up 69 wins for the 2022/23 season including the Sheila Gwynne Classic on Stellar Vista.
Chanel Cooper won the Trainee of the Year Award and highlights of her season included her first trial on Almighty Miss and her first trial win on Lonsdaleite two weeks later.
Country Apprentice of the Year was won by Austin Galati in both A and B divisions, with 62 wins and 90 places.
Brayden Gaerth took home the State Apprentice of the Year award after achieving 70 wins. He was also chosen to represent WA in the National Apprentice Race Series and won his heat.
Holly Watson, Austin Galati, Angela Johnston and Laqdar Ramoly graduated from the RWWA Apprentice Training Program.
The awards were presented at Frasers Kings Park on September 4, 2023.