Another Kiwi-trained apprentice jockey has returned home a much more complete rider and horseman.
Khalid Marzuki, or Hairi Marzuki as was his riding name in New Zealand, is back after an industrial attachment of close to two years.
The son of former jockey Marzuki Sani will be indentured to trainer Bruce Marsh, which will be a swap of sorts within the family. He was attached to Marsh’s son Stephen in Cambridge.
Khalid Marzuki receiving his Most Promising 1st Year Apprentice Award from riding master Noel Harris last October, picture Singapore Turf Club
Khalid completed the full term of his 21 months of apprenticeship which comes under the tutelage of Singapore Turf Club’s overseas programme for its apprentice jockeys. He rode 19 winners from 248 rides, with his last winner Cascata coming for his master at Avondale on November 30 while he bowed out at his last race meeting at Te Aroha on April 7.
Khalid said he really learned a great deal from his New Zealand stint, even earning himself the Most Promising 1st Year Apprentice Award at last October’s Milan Park Waikato Apprentice Jockeys Awards, but he felt it was also the right time to resume his fledgling career back on home soil.
“It’s been a great experience. I could have asked for an extension, but I also wanted to come home,” said the 31-year-old rider who returned to Singapore 10 days ago.
“I never took a holiday to return to Singapore while I was there. I was homesick but I kept working hard.
“Even though New Zealand racing does not have a lot of prizemoney, it gave me the opportunity to ride with all these senior jockeys like Mark du Plessis and Opie Bosson.
“They, along with my master, have taught me how to handle horses better, how to read a race better. For example, how to get used to different horses and know when to push the button or go for a gap.
“We ride more often there and it’s also made me a stronger and fitter rider. I can’t wait to get back to show what I can do at Kranji.”
Khalid Marzuki looks to improve on his local haul of only one Singapore win from Silver Wind, picture Singapore Turf Club
Khalid left Kranji in August 2016 a few months after he made his riding debut under former trainer Steven Lam, booting home one winner, Silver Wind for trainer Kuah Cheng Tee on May 8, 2016.
“I did my medical last week and should be able to start working with Mr Marsh soon,” said Khalid.
“I’ve been well taken care of by my mum since I came back and now weigh 54kgs, but I should be able to come down to my usual riding weight once I get back to riding.”
