Luke Campbell has capped off an outstanding season by claiming the prestigious Damien Oliver Award at Racing WA’s 2024/25 Apprentice Jockey Awards, presented in person by the legendary jockey himself.
Luke also took home the Leading Rider and Leading Metro Jockey titles, rounding out a stellar year that marks his transition into the senior riding ranks.
Racing WA Chief Racing Officer David Hunter said the Damien Oliver Award went beyond excellence on the track to reward an apprentice who showed dedication to racing along with commitment to ongoing improvement and a positive approach to health, wellbeing and community engagement.
“This award is about more than wins in the saddle. It recognises dedication, growth and the way our apprentices carry themselves on and off the track,” David said. “Luke has had an outstanding season. He’s shown maturity, consistency and professionalism, and this is the perfect way to celebrate his transition into the senior riding ranks.
“To receive the Damien Oliver Award from Damien himself will no doubt be a moment Luke remembers for the rest of his career. Damien is one of Western Australia’s greatest sporting exports, and his support of this program continues to inspire the next generation.”
Racing and Wagering Western Australia CEO Ian Edwards said the Racing WA Apprentice Jockey Training Program was central to developing the next generation of WA racing talent.
“Our program is about developing resilient, well-rounded young people who can thrive both on and off the track,” Ian said. “With the support of our coaches, Peter Hall and John Claite, and the dedication of our Racing Training team, we’re giving these apprentices the best possible start to their careers.”
The evening also recognised the graduation of three apprentices: Brayden Gaerth, Luke Campbell and Kristo Sardelic, who have now completed the program and will continue their careers as senior riders.
Six new apprentices were officially welcomed into the Racing WA Apprentice Jockey Training Program on the night: Tara Atherden, Emily Chapman, Kayla Holroyd, Ebony Johnson, Destynie Pennington and Gemma Taylor.