Apprentice Jockey Dakota Keane Shines with Metropolitan Breakthrough Win at Sandown
Mornington-based trainer Tony Noonan was as excited as apprentice jockey Dakota Keane herself when the young rider clinched her first metropolitan victory at Sandown Racecourse on Wednesday.
Keane, who had only her second ride in the metropolitan area, partnered the $6 chance Herbert Park to a three-quarter-length triumph in the Become An MRC Member Handicap (1200m). The filly held off the challenges of La Casona ($6) and Kate’s Tiara ($16) to secure the decisive victory.
Noonan, who has mentored numerous apprentices over the years, was full of praise for Keane, declaring that the talented young rider is destined for greatness. He revealed that he had initially tried to dissuade Keane from pursuing a career in racing, as she had shown immense potential as an amateur boxer, with her former coach suggesting she had the skills to represent Australia at the Olympics.
“She’s the second female apprentice I’ve had, and she has been just superb since she joined us,” Noonan said. “She has a great work ethic, but more importantly she has a positive attitude and has been a breath of fresh air for this old bloke every morning.”
Noonan highlighted Keane’s patience and tactical nous as key factors in Herbert Park’s victory, as the filly had to overcome a wide draw. “What I like about her at the moment, she thinks about what she is doing,” the trainer said. “She drew wide, got into a good spot and then nursed her before she had to go for her.”
While Herbert Park is still a work in progress, much like her young apprentice rider, Noonan is confident that both horse and jockey are heading in the right direction. “She’s a bit like Dakota, she’s tough and a work in progress, but I think there’s still good improvement to come from her,” he said.
With this metropolitan breakthrough win under her belt, the future looks bright for apprentice jockey Dakota Keane as she continues to hone her skills and make her mark in the competitive world of horse racing.
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