Apprentice jockey Chong grateful for first career win

Young apprentice jockey Mario Chong is still basking in glory after recording his first victory in the saddle at Caymanas Park on Saturday, March 6.

The 20-year-old Chong, who has been riding since December 2019, piloted home 4-5 favourite DIAMOND LEAGUE to victory in the eighth race over six and half furlongs.

DIAMOND LEAGUE, who led from start to finish, won by seven and half lengths over GORGEOUS GIFT with jockey Javaniel Patterson.

"I am very happy, and I want to thank God for my first win because I really worked hard for it," said Chong. "It was an emotional feeling coming to the wire, knowing that it was going to be my first career win, and so this is a stepping stone for great things to come."

Chong, the son of veteran trainer Albert Chong, noted that this win has given a lot of confidence for the future, because he is a lot more determined now to do well in the saddle.

"It was the first-time feeling, that feeling of pleasure, and so this will motivate me to get a lot more wins for the rest of the year," Chong said. "It has made me feel a lot more confident in myself because after achieving that win on Saturday, I was much confident on Sunday because I had spring in my steps, as it gave me the urge to win more races," he said.

The former Greater Portmore High School student noted that he must thank Victor Williams, trainer of DIAMOND LEAGUE and the owner, along with his apprentice master trainer Steven Todd for their help and guidance.

"I will never forget this win because this is my first, and so I am very proud of myself, and it is really a great feeling for any young jockey," Chong said. "I must thank the trainer and owner for believing in me and giving me this victory," he said.