In the world of horse racing, few names evoke the same level of admiration, resilience, and consistency as Emile Ramsammy. Born on December 11, 1962, in Trinidad, Trinidad and Tobago, Ramsammy carved out a legendary career that spans continents, from his early dominance in the Caribbean to becoming one of Canada’s most celebrated thoroughbred jockeys.
With over 500 victories in the Caribbean before his move to Canada, Emile Ramsammy’s rise to prominence is a testament to his talent, determination, and unwavering love for the sport. His name is synonymous with excellence, and his career serves as an inspiring story for aspiring jockeys worldwide.
Emile Ramsammy: A Rising Star in Trinidad
Before becoming a household name in Canadian horse racing, Emile Ramsammy was already a shining star in his native Trinidad. His early career in the Caribbean saw him achieve incredible feats, making him one of the most successful jockeys in the region’s history. Throughout the 1980s, Ramsammy dominated the racing scene, earning widespread recognition for his skills and strategy on the track.
Emile Ramsammy captured three Cockspur Gold Cups and set numerous riding records, with 500 winners to his name. His crowning achievement came in 1989 when he won 82 races in just 43 racing dates, a record that solidified his place as one of the Caribbean’s greatest jockeys.
A Fateful Decision: Moving to Canada
In 1989, while vacationing in Canada, Emile Ramsammy’s career took a life-changing turn. During his visit, he met veteran trainer Jerry Meyer, who persuaded him to race at the prestigious Woodbine Racetrack in Toronto. It was a decision that altered Ramsammy’s trajectory, opening the door to new opportunities and challenges. The transition wasn’t easy, but Ramsammy’s adaptability and resilience quickly helped him find success in the competitive North American racing scene.
As Emile Ramsammy began his career in Canada, he made an immediate impact. In 1996, he won his first Queen’s Plate, Canada’s most prestigious race, riding Victor Cooley to victory.
This triumph marked the beginning of his legendary status in Canadian horse racing. Ten years later, he would claim another Queen’s Plate win with Edenwold, further cementing his legacy. Ramsammy’s consistency in delivering stellar performances in some of the toughest races earned him the Sovereign Award for Outstanding Jockey in both 1996 and 1997.
Overcoming Challenges and Persevering
Despite his numerous successes, Ramsammy’s career has not been without challenges. Injuries are an inherent part of the sport, and Ramsammy has had his fair share. Yet, each time he faced setbacks, he demonstrated remarkable resilience, bouncing back from injuries with an unyielding determination to return to the track. His ability to persevere through adversity speaks to his inner strength and deep passion for horse racing.
When asked about his injuries, Emile Ramsammy remains humble and philosophical. “Injuries are part of the game,” he says. “I’m not afraid of the sport at all. I have a wife and four kids, and they are all very supportive of what I do.” This grounded perspective highlights his dedication, not just to his profession, but to his family, who have been by his side throughout his journey.
Achievements and Recognition
Ramsammy’s remarkable career is decorated with numerous accolades. One of the most significant recognitions came in 2011 when he was named the recipient of the Avelino Gomez Memorial Award, an honor bestowed upon jockeys who have made significant contributions to thoroughbred racing in Canada. The award, named after the legendary Cuban-born jockey Avelino Gomez, is a prestigious recognition of Ramsammy’s commitment to the sport and his remarkable success over the years.
For Ramsammy, receiving the Gomez Award was both a surprise and an honor. “It was a pleasant surprise when I learned that I was the recipient of this honor,” he said. “When I look at the list of other riders who have won this award, it makes me very happy.” The Gomez Award is a testament to Ramsammy’s enduring impact on the sport and his place among the elite jockeys of his generation.
Throughout his career, Ramsammy has amassed an incredible 141 lifetime stakes wins, including 29 graded stakes victories. His ability to perform consistently at the highest levels of the sport has earned him widespread respect and admiration within the racing community.
Also Read:Jailoshini Naidoo: The Versatile Actress, Comedian, and TV Presenter