Jockey Ronaldo Appadu is keen on making his international licence count on the big day of racing – the Guyana Cup on August 23. Before he capture that crown, Appadu is hoping to deliver the goods on Sunday, February 1 at the Banks Classic at Port Mourant Turf Club.
For Appadu, it is a surreal feeling to be in the history books as among the first batch to have an international jockey licence.
“It was nice going out there. It feels really good (to be part of history, first set of international licensed jockey). I want to thank Jumbo Jet Racing stables and J’s Racing stables for the opportunity to get me out there,” Appadu said.
The next race day is in under one week, and Appadu is feeling upbeat about preparations.
“Preparation is going good so far. We are getting up early to work and so far it’s good. The track is in very good condition, so no complaints,” he said.
The February 1 race will be the second of the year, and Appadu is aiming for more success throughout this year.
“Last year was a good year. But I am working harder to be on top. If a trainer see you ride, they can send a letter and I am permitted to ride in any other country. So I will make full use of the licence,” the young Guyanese said.
Ten races are on the cards for February 1, and approximately $15 million will be up for grabs. The top horse in the feature one-mile event will be rewarded $2 million.
Other races on the provisional card include the Sprint Classic Open, the F Class and Lower open to E Class non-winners in their last start, four-year-old imported maidens in Guyana, three-year-old Guyana-bred non-winners of two races, L Class maidens open to first-time starters, G Class and Lower open to F Class non-winners in their last three starts, I Class and Lower open to West Indian-bred non-winners in their last two starts classified to H Class, J3 and Lower, L Class Open, and L Class non-earners for 2025 and 2026.
Horses will not be able to race without an entry form. Last week, the Guyana Cup Committee officially released the 2026 Guyana Cup Nomination Series, covering the Guyana Cup (Mile), Guyana Cup Sprint, and Guyana-Bred Derby.
Three races, four nomination days for the Guyana Cup, and one championship season.
The nomination days are February 1, 2026, at Port Mourant Turf Club; April 5, 2026, at Port Mourant Turf Club; May 3, 2026, at Bush Lot United Turf Club; and July 5, 2026, at Port Mourant Turf Club (final nomination day).
The most noted stable of late has been Jumbo Jet Racing Stables, which is also arguably Guyana’s most established stable. J’s Racing Stable has surpassed the underdog expectations and has solidified itself as one of Guyana’s best stables, while Slingerz Racing Stables will be put to the test to regain their glory as champion stables.
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