One of the most exciting young talents in Australian racing, Jett Newman, has continued her hot run into 2026.
Enjoying a meteoric rise through the jockey ranks, Newman only booted home her first winner at Murwillumbah in February, guiding the Matthew Dunn-trained Without Parallel to victory in a $50,000 Super Maiden (1100m).
Just 11 months later, the talented hoop is already 77 wins into her career, and on the verge of outriding her country claim following another good outing in the saddle at Ballina.
Riding for Gary Doughty, the rising star rode Aquatier ($2.60) to a comfortable victory in the 1015m Class One Handicap.
Newman was positive early on Aquateir, eventually getting a good run behind the lead Elronte (Karl Zechnerm, $10) before the pair charged to the front and won well.
“That one (Elronte) from the outside came over to lead easily, and I was happy to sit off it, and coming to the corner, I knew I had the winner,” Newman said.
“She travelled into it super and just gave a good kick and just found the line super.
“It was a forgetful last run, but she’s back this start, and I am very, very pleased.”
Racing is in Newman’s blood, being the daughter of former Sydney jockey, Mitch Newman, who was champion Sydney apprentice in 1998/99 and 2000/01.
Given a strong foundation in the sport, Newman, who had previously enjoyed success with showjumping and pony racing, cut her teeth under the watchful eyes of Claire and Chad Lever.
Progressing from trackwork to the trials and, eventually, a move to the Matthew Dunn stable early last year, the stage was set for Newman to make her mark in the racing industry.
From there, it’s been a blur as Newman won on debut, then out-rode her four-kilogram claim in just 11 rides.
Now just 11 months into her career, she has enjoyed success on both sides of the border, even landing metropolitan victories.
Recently, the in-form apprentice made headlines, riding a treble at the Gold Coast on December 27, bringing up a double for Matt Dunn and a victory for Kelly Schweida.
With her country claim almost maxed out, Newman will look to the next stage of her career, which she hopes will take her to Sydney.
“I’ve got three winners left,” Newman said.
“I’ve started riding provincials now, but I’ll probably do a little bit more and eventually head back to Sydney later on.
“Everyone has been very supportive, and I’m very blessed to have Matt as a boss.”
When asked about her rise through the ranks and recent slate of winners, Newman was humble in her response, quickly praising those who had given her opportunities.
“I definitely did not expect it, but I’ve had great support; it’s been great, and I‘m excited to continue,” she said.
