Pernilla Hermansson



Imagine the only winner you've ridden in the UK under rules is the winner of the Derby, well when you look at Pernilla Hermansson stats that's what you get.

It may have been the Ladies Derby, but it is still a mile and a half around Epsom with Tattenham Corner to negotiate.

Swedish born Hermansson began her UK based career by joining the BRS back in 2005. On completion of the 9 week course she headed off to Richard Ford's yard in Newcastle-under-Lyme where she remains today. Her commitment to her boss has paid off, as it was the Ford trained Inspirina who Pernilla brought home 4 lengths clear in the Tompkins & May Partnership Ladies Derby. "It's a thrill, he did it well" she said when asked of the joy to ride a British Winner, and she went on to say "I am very thankful to the owner and the trainer of Inspirina for giving me the opportunity to ride at Epsom in such a prestigious race, never mind riding a winner there!"

Its not just Mr Ford who has recognised her hardworking attitude, but also the staff at the BRS, as Pernilla was the winner of the 12 Club Award. This is an annual prize sponsored by the 12 racing enthusiasts of the 12 Club and given to the trainee whom BRS staff feel have put in the most effort to succeed. Royston Ffrench is another notable winner of this award and a fellow Derby winner this year, again not the 'real' Derby but the German version of the race.

So will Pernilla be adding more Derby successes to her CV? Keep an eye out for this young lady and hopefully there will be many more winners like this.