WELLINGTON - Racing's new wonder boy Michael Walker would like to become the first New Zealand apprentice to outride his allowance in his first season of riding.
Walker, who it wil stun many racing fans only turns 16 today, has equalled Opie Bosson's record of 71 wins in his first 12 months of riding.
Bosson chalked up his tally 12 months after having his first ride on October 25 1995, while Walker has matched the figure in just nine months.
His first ride was at Te Rapa on July 31 last year.
Now with one record out of the way Walker needs just another 10 winners to lose his apprentice claim.
Walker is apprenticed to the stable of Allan Sharrock at Waitara in Taranaki and kicked home his first winner - Awesome Heights - at Waverley on August 26 last year.
His victory on Tuesday came aboard the promising Noel Eales-trained 4-year-old Regatta, who was recording his third win from just five starts.
Walker has taken the Central Districts racing scene by storm this season and quickly attracted the attention of many good judges in both the training and riding ranks.
Surprisingly, he has had more rides - just over 600 - than any other jockey this season, confirmation that owners and trainers have not taken long to realise hia talent. He has been in hot demand wherever he has travelled.
The most notable day so far in his short career came at Trentham on March 4, when he landed a group three double aboard Big Hustler (New Zealand St Leger) and Resonare (Thompson Handicap).
He has also recorded two group one placings.
One of those came with a third aboard giant mare The Gifted Shifta in the $300,000 Wellington Cup in January.
The latest came last Saturday, when he partnered Resonare to third placing in the Easter Handicap at Ellerslie.
Walker has even surprised himself with his outstanding deeds this season.
"I never thought I would be here when I started riding," he said.
"I've just got to keep whacking away and trying my best. Hopefully this is only the start, it doesn't stop here."
Walker heads to Riccarton this weekend, when he will partner McMammoth in the $20,000 Warstep Stakes (2000m) and Jolly Rodger in the $30,000 Challenge Stakes (1600m).
- NZPA
Racing: Walker ready for the record
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