adminTakudzwa Chitsiga Sports Reporter
AHEAD of the final Triple Tiara this Sunday, the Zimbabwe Derby, United Kingdom-based jockey Dewi Williams, who rode three Triple Crown winners, has some advice for all the racing enthusiasts.
Williams rode three runners from the Lisa Harris stable who did very well in some high-profile races like the Zimbabwe Derby.
He was forced into early retirement after a serious injury.
This year Bridget Stidolph who will have four runners, including Sygone – who is currently in good form – in the Derby.
“I was very fortunate to ride three of some of the best runners, starting with Glen Monarch, the first super horse, and Earl Of Surrey – a top-class sprinter as well as Rebecca’s Fleet – the filly who beat the boys, and was unbeaten in all her 10 starts in Zimbabwe,’’ said Williams.
“Preparation is the key going into the Derby. The 2400m trip is an unknown for most of the three-year-olds.
‘’My mindset was always the same – I’m on the best and they all have to beat me.
“You try to stay as calm as you can, but you know what’s at stake. The gates open and you get a good position front, back or midfield.
“Be positive, as only you and your horse can do it now. When all goes to plan and you hit the line your first thought is relief, because you’ve done it.
‘’Then it starts to sink, what you’ve just achieved, and you are so proud.’’
Final Fields
ZIMBABWE DERBY (GRADE 3)
For three-year-olds/ third Leg Triple Crown
No Apprentice Allowance
1 5 SYGONE 58.0 78 A C Storey Bridget Stidolph
2 3 ACTION JACKSON 58.0 75 A R Munger Penny Fisher
3 1 THREE TO TANGO 58.0 70 A R Danielson Kirk Swanson
4 6 RAIN SPIDER 58.0 55 CS B McNaughton Bridget Stidolph
5 2 CROWN BREWED 58.0 41 CS D L Habib Bridget Stidolph
6 4 MIA FINOLA 54.5 78 A C Habib Bridget Stidolph
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