Race Images Palmerston North
Casey-Mae Waddell sported a smile a mile wide at Woodville on Thursday after riding her first winner.
The 20-year-old saluted the judge aboard the Gary Freeman-bred and owned Look Out, who is trained by the apprentice’s employer Kevin Gray.
“I’d like to thank Mr Gray and Mr Freeman for putting me on the horse,” Waddell said. “It’s just awesome to get the job done for them.
“Mr Gray has been amazing and I’ve learned so much.”
Waddell had ridden Look Out at his previous start, also at Woodville, when they finished third.
“Last time he just over-raced and today he settled a lot better – it was great,” she said.
Look Out is a five-year-old son of Nom du Jeu and Chantilly Pearl, who is from the family of the Great Northern and New Zealand Oaks winner and Caulfield Cup placegetter Young Ida.
“He’s out of a good mare and I think he’ll go a lot further,” Gray said. “I’m very pleased for Gary who’s not well and in hospital.”
Gray was also chuffed for Waddell, who he said was a pleasure to have around the stable.
“She works very hard, she’s a great lady with a great personality.” – NZ Racing Desk.