Racing: Misbah will stay with Andertons after completing apprenticeship

Jay Misbah, who has ridden 115 winners, has his final day as an apprentice at the Canterbury Jockey Club meeting at Riccarton on Saturday.

Misbah, 26, has made the most of his opportunities after becoming indentured four years ago to North Taieri trainer Shane Anderton, who trains in partnership with his father, Brian.

Misbah had been riding trackwork at Takanini for a year for trainer Bruce Wallace after migrating to New Zealand from Kuala Lumpur to pursue a career as a jockey.

Taz Salleh, who rode for the Andertons, had suggested he approach the stable.

Misbah rode the Anderton-trained Vitaquette to win at Wingatui in June, 2006 at his second race ride.

He has been the leading South Island apprentice for the past two seasons and is sharing the lead this season, with 21 wins.

He rode 32 winners in the 2007-08 season and 49 last season when his mounts amassed $495,504 in stakes.

His wins include the Gore Cup in 2008 and 2009 on Of The Essence, and the Kurow and Queenstown Cups on Flight Point. He rode four winners - Senor De Guerrero, Twizel Magic, Powder Creek, and Turn The Page - at Gore on January 28.

"The Andertons have been very good to me and I am very grateful," said Misbah, who is remaining with the stable.

His mounts on Saturday include Royal Flight (open 1600m), Kirkdouglas (Southland Guineas), Renee Maree and Beata. "I would see Royal Flight as my best chance," he said.

Royal Flight ran third to Hold It Harvey and Eel Win in the White Robe Lodge at Wingatui at her last start. Misbah has ridden the mare in four of her five wins.

- OTAGO DAILY TIMES