Newmarket based apprentice Simon Pearce has ridden in all of the training races so far this year and is so far clear on points that he can not be caught.

He has therefore won the "Betfair" sponsored series at the second time of trying before the final race is run on at Newmarket on 30th October 2009. He set out with the intention of winning the 2008 series and made a great start, leading during the early stages, however he was sidelined with a serious knee injury which prevented him from continuing in the series. His plan this year was no different from 2008 and he started with the same determination and professional approach as 2008.

Richard Perham who set up and coordinates the Training Race Series said "This series was set up as the next step on from the Hands & Heels Series and has been used over the past couple of years as an educational training aid for young jockeys. The emphasis of the series is not just the riding element but the way that the young riders present and conduct themselves and also the attitude they show towards learning.

Simon Pearce

Simon has been a model of consistency in all of the categories. He prepares well for the rides that he has secured; he always looks smart, with a shirt, tie and suit on. He listens well to the guidance given by the jockey coaches, is polite and professional and for all these reasons he is a worthy winner of the series".

With first prize comes the added bonus of £5000 to put towards a working holiday of his choice. The destination has yet to be decided however I am sure that Simon will find the best place to soak up as much information as possible to help him in his quest to become a better jockey.