Japanese apprentice Yuga Okubo received the perfect birthday present at Te Rapa last Saturday when riding his first winner in New Zealand aboard Charmer (NZ) (Charm Spirit).
Before arriving on Kiwi soil in early 2024, Okubo had ridden four winners in his homeland and took the opportunity to gain some international experience under the tutelage of Cambridge horseman Tony Pike.
After learning the English language and settling into life in New Zealand, Okubo was able to gain an apprentice license and picked up a couple of placings before securing the ride on the well-performed daughter of Charm Spirit.
Contesting the North Waikato Law (1300m), Charmer was rated a $16 hope but her chances were enhanced by Okubo’s four-kilogram claim, which came right into play on the Heavy10 surface at Te Rapa. The young hoop found a good position early from barrier two, settling in behind the speed as many runners rushed to find a prominent position.
The mare was back in midfield turning for home, but after straightening down the centre of the track, she kept finding and surged over the top of Oppenheimer and Ridgeview Vicky to score by half a length, just in time for Okubo’s 22nd birthday.
“It gave me a great birthday present because the next day was my birthday,” he said.
“It all panned out as I’d hoped, she’s a really nice horse and looked like a fast filly, so I had good confidence in her before the race.
“I was very happy to receive the opportunity to ride her. A huge thank you to the owner and her trainers (Ben and Ryan Foote).”
Back in Japan, Okubo followed his family’s interest into racing and always dreamed of becoming a jockey.
“My Dad and Grandpa were involved in racing in Japan, so I grew up around racing people and have always wanted to be a jockey,” he said.
“I’ve been in New Zealand for a year and a half, but I had to learn the English language before I was able to get a license as an international apprentice. I’ve had a license with the JRA for three years and I’ve come over here to experience racing in New Zealand.
“My Japanese boss organised for me to come over here with Tony Pike, who I’ve been working for in New Zealand and riding every day.
“The people are very kind and helpful here, I love this country and am enjoying living here.”
With the monkey off his back, Okubo is hoping to continue riding winners through the winter, a time where apprentices are able to gain more opportunities on race day.
“I hope I can keep riding winners over the winter,” he said.
“Thank you for those who have supported me so far.”