Apprentice jockey Alice Kennedy made a statement at Narrandera on Saturday, riding her first career double while also winning the LW Peacock Memorial Cup Benchmark 50 Handicap.
The 18-year-old teamed up with Wangaratta trainer Dan McCarthy in the main event and won on Black Adam ($4.20).
After jumping midfield from barrier eight, Kennedy opted to round the field before the pair were out in front with three furlongs remaining.
From there, the 4YO Super One gelding hung on gamely for victory.
“I was a little bit worried one my run me down, but when I was close to the post I knew I had it,” Kennedy told Country Punter.
“It was great to get a winner for Dan with my first ride for him, and hopefully, I can get a few more for opportunities and wins.”
Earlier on the seven-race program, Kennedy teamed up with her master, Ben Brisbourne, winning on Lightning Lizard in the 1000m Benchmark 50 Handicap.
Kennedy and the 4YO Redente gelding held their spot on the rail from the inside gate before finding the front after 300 metres.
The Wangaratta galloper was strong to the line, holding on for a popular win.
“It’s great getting a winner for Ben. He’s giving me all these opportunities and it’s great I can get the job done for him,” Kennedy said.
The 4kg-claiming apprentice was thrilled to land her first winning double, especially as her first and only other winner arrived on the Ben Brisbourne-trained Rocket Tiger in April.
“It’s a great feeling,” Kennedy said.
“I didn’t have a lot of confidence after getting my first winner, then waiting so long for my next winner, but coming back from holidays and getting a double on my first day back riding is a great feeling.”
“Now it’s just about ticking over and getting as many rides as I can and winners as possible, and hopefully the opportunities keep coming.”
Having grown up in Moyhu, just outside of Wangaratta, Kennedy is still close to home, and the youngster was just happy to be working and riding for the strong Brisbourne yard.
“I left school at 15; I wasn’t enjoying it and needed a job. I’ve always loved horses, so I went to Ben and asked for a job, and he gave me one,” Kennedy said.
“I started on the ground, and I never intended to be an apprentice, but it was always in the back of my mind. I never thought I’d be able to do it.
“Ben gave me the confidence that I could learn, and 12 months later I was in the apprentice program and now I’m here winning races at Narrandera.”
Kennedy is back riding at Wangaratta today (Sunday), taking four rides for Brisbourne yard.
