The Apprentices: Johnson vs Elliot
Each week we’re going to bring you some quickfire questions with New Zealand thoroughbred racing’s apprentice jockeys. We learn what makes them tick on race day, gets them up for pre-dawn starts, and if they have any raceday superstitions.
This week we pick up the series with Shiarna Johnson and Ryan Elliot.
Who is your favourite horse?
Shiarna: Comeback
Ryan: Pasabahce
Melody Belle or Danzdanzdance?
Shiarna: Melody Belle
Ryan: Even
Which jockey do look up to most?
Shiarna: Opie Bosson
Ryan: Matt Cameron
Who is your favourite sire?
Shiarna: Makfi
Ryan: Savabeel
What’s the best racecourse in New Zealand?
Shiarna: Trentham
Ryan: Tauranga
Which sport do you most like to watch?
Shiarna: Horse racing
Ryan: Rugby
If you weren’t a superstar jockey what would you be doing?
Shiarna: Horse industry
Ryan: Builder
What gets you motivated in the morning?
Shiarna: Improving my jockey skills
Ryan: Thrill of seeing Graeme
What’s your raceday drink?
Shiarna: Water
Ryan: Ch’i
After a big raceday what’s your favourite meal?
Shiarna: Fruit
Ryan: Kebabs
Home cooked, or eating out at a restaurant?
Shiarna: Home cooked
Ryan: Home cooked
Do you have an superstitions that you follow on raceday?
Shiarna: Likes Te Akau colours
Ryan: Placement of phone & Racebook in jockeys room
