Jockey Austin Adams Receives Invitation to Compete at Deauville

Apprentice jockey Austin Adams eagerly anticipates graduating at the top of his racing class early next month at Deauville-La Touques Racecourse in France. This honour holds special significance for the young Canadian rider, who will compete in an exclusive, invitation-only race on July 6th at the renowned French Thoroughbred racetrack in the country's northwest region.

A Dream Opportunity

Adams expressed his excitement about the Prix Together for Racing International (TfRI) – Finale European Association of Racing School event, saying, "Any time you get to travel and do something you love – that makes it even more exciting. And representing North America and Woodbine adds to the specialness." This annual race for horses aged four and up, spanning 2500 meters, draws riders from around the world, including the United States, Germany, England, Italy, Qatar, Venezuela, and South Korea. The event, held in conjunction with TfRI, aims to support the future health of the sport by focusing on education, community engagement, and career opportunities.

Path to Deauville

Adams' connection to the TfRI event traces back to his time at the North American Racing Academy (N.A.R.A), a program at the Bluegrass Community and Technical College (BCTC) in Lexington, Kentucky. Established by Hall of Fame jockey Chris McCarron in 2006, N.A.R.A. is the first and only community college-based racehorse riding certificate program in the U.S. Adams completed the two-year Riding Skills program and graduated, later being invited by his instructor to represent the jockey school in France.

Family Influence and Early Challenges

Born in Waterdown, Ontario, about an hour from Woodbine Racetrack, Adams found his way into racing through his father, Andre, who was an exercise rider at Woodbine for over 30 years. Despite having an interest in horses, Adams didn't initially consider becoming a jockey. "My dad was so busy with his two racetrack careers, he didn’t have time to bring me around the horses," he explained. It wasn't until he was 17 that his father suggested he try hotwalking, but Adams chose to focus on education, eventually finding the jockey school in Kentucky.

Education and Training

At the Thoroughbred Training Center in Lexington, students, including Adams, learn the craft with retired racehorses. Upon meeting course requirements, they receive an exercise riding licence from the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission and gain hands-on experience with Thoroughbred trainers. Adams' time at BCTC not only taught him to ride but also provided a valuable education, which he and his family prioritised.

First Win at Woodbine

On November 12, 2023, at Woodbine, Adams achieved a milestone by securing his first win aboard 7-year-old dark bay gelding Big Time Louie in a 5 ½-furlong sprint. "It was my sixth-lifetime start and my first race with a riding crop," he recalled. Sent off at 18-1, the pair took command at the three-eighths and won by a half-length. "I could hear my family screaming when I crossed the wire," Adams remembered. The win was a dream come true, celebrated by a lively reception from fellow riders.

Looking Ahead

With fewer than 75 mounts into his career, Adams is determined to achieve more success. Competing in one of North America's most competitive jockey colonies presents challenges he eagerly embraces. "I am still a 10-pound bug, but I want to make a name for myself. I’d like to win apprentice of the year and be a top rider one day," he stated. Inspired by hockey great Sidney Crosby, Adams incorporates qualities of leadership and dedication into his daily riding.

Anticipation for Deauville

As Adams prepares for the race at Deauville, he looks forward to the experience and hopes to secure a win. "I can’t even imagine how it will feel to be in that race. I’m going to go there, soak everything up, and hopefully get the win," he said.

Adams' journey from a young rider influenced by his father to competing on an international stage demonstrates his dedication and passion for the sport. His story is one of perseverance, education, and the pursuit of excellence in the world of horse racing.