One on one with jockey Andrew Adkins

This week, JustHorseRacing catches up with 2-time group 2 winner Andrew Adkins. The 20-year-old recently clocked up career win number 200 and is currently one of New South Wale’s best up-and-coming metropolitan jockeys.

How did you first get into racing?

My father and my pop were both jockeys, pop actually trained and my dad rode, he only rode for a short period of time but I was always around racing so it was only a matter of time for me, just a ticking time bomb I guess for when I would start riding.

When was your first ride and how did you go?

It was at Taree in November 2013 I think, for my old boss on a horse called Cracker night. I actually nearly won, I came second by a bees d**k. I led the whole way and just got run down on the line.

What is your career highlight so far?

Riding Daysee Doom, she’s been an absolute superstar for me. Winning the (Group 2) Golden Pendant at Rosehill was special. I came 4th in a Group 1 on her in the Coolmore Classic, which was pretty big. I’ve won group 3’s on her as well and placed in a couple more group 2s and 3s.

Best or worst sledge you’ve copped from a punter?

Couldn’t tell you. You get it all the time, everyone gets it. I just let it go over my head.

Do you have any race day superstitions?

Yes, I alway put my goggles on before I get legged up.

What you say is your most embarrassing moment, either on or off the track?

One day I was riding at Rosehill and I just fell off past the winning post, I don’t even know what happened I just passed out or something. I was just by myself and came off after coming second, it was really embarrassing. I think I was too far past the post to see it on TV but there were plenty of people watching.

What is your career goal?

At the moment, I just want to finish my apprenticeship, and keep performing in town. It would be good to get into the top 10 for Metro rankings, and from there, keep setting goals and eventually get into the top 3. Also winning a group 1 would be obvious but yeah just keep riding winners in town on Saturdays.

What do you spend your last $50 on?

Some KFC. Like a big bucket with everything in it like a super variety bucket. I could probably finish it; it wouldn’t really matter because I’m light.

What would you be if you weren’t a jockey? 

I would love to be a professional motocross rider.