In a historic milestone, 22-year-old Rachel Venniker, a product of the South African Jockey Academy, is set to become the first female jockey to compete in the prestigious Durban July this Saturday.
Born in Durban and currently based in Summerveld, Venniker was destined for greatness in the saddle. Her journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable, with a recent third-place finish at the J&B Met in Cape Town, just a month after completing her apprenticeship.
Venniker’s determination and skill will be put to the test as she rides WITHOUT QUESTION, owned by renowned trainer Justin Snaith, in the R7.63 million race. The event is expected to draw a massive crowd of over 40,000 spectators to the Greyville Racecourse.
Last year, Venniker was poised to make her Durban July debut but suffered a setback when she hit her head on the gate during a practice session, forcing her to miss the event. However, her perseverance and dedication have paid off, and she is now ready to make history.
Will Rachel Venniker ride her way into the record books this Saturday? The nation will be watching with bated breath as she takes on the best in the sport.
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