Young gun Cooper the latest jockey to join WA’s riding ranks
Riding the likes of Perth Cup winner Casino Seventeen, the talented Red Fifty Three and progressive filly Yonga Lass at trials has been invaluable for apprentice jockey Chanel Cooper.
However, it was the time spent with a Palomino named Lacey as a youngster, which helped Chanel – who makes her race riding debut at Pinjarra this Sunday – develop the tough skin needed to start her riding journey.
“Lacey is a little Palomino and was a great horse to have growing up – she certainly taught me a lot,” Chanel said.
The 17-year-old apprentice, who is indentured to Grant and Alana Williams, is set to pilot Brazen Empress in the Murray Veterinary Services Maiden (1300m) in the opening race of the Pinjarra meeting.
Chanel is also booked to ride stayer Bergamo and filly Terratif for Williams Racing.
“I’m not overly nervous for Sunday but I am definitely excited and looking forward to it,” she said.
For Chanel, it has been a steep learning curve since she started riding trackwork at the Williams’ Karnup property in late 2021, after former WA-based apprentice Jett Stanley encouraged her to “give it a go”.
“I started riding track each Saturday, when I was still at school,” Chanel said.
Chanel is thankful for Alana Williams’ tutelage.
“It took a while to get my bridge and stance right but I’ve always had Alana right there next to me.”
Chanel initially didn’t know much about Alana’s decorated career as a jockey, but now considers herself lucky to ride alongside “the best” when helping prepare Williams Racing’s team of gallopers.
“Alana can see things no one else can with my riding,” Chanel said.
“She has an incredible eye and always points little things out to help me – she is a great teacher.
“Grant and Alana have given me a great opportunity. They’re both great mentors and I’m thankful for them helping me get to this stage.”
Racing WA Racing Training Manager Sharyn Lancaster, who oversees the Apprentice Jockey Training Program (AJTP) in WA, congratulated Chanel ahead of her riding debut and said a career in the saddle was tough, yet rewarding.
“Size, fitness and skill are all important factors in becoming a jockey, but ultimately you need a love of horses and terrific work ethic – Chanel has all of that,” she said.
“There are currently 15 apprentice jockeys in our program and our coaches John Claite and Peter Hall are doing a fantastic job in helping them all become the next generation of riders.
“The education and training provided through the program not only prepares our apprentices for a successful career in saddle, but also prioritises the development of essential life skills needed in areas such as health and wellbeing, self-management and business acumen.”
Zach Relph