Apprentice jockey Catherine Van Munster, winner of the 2025 Longford Cup aboard Distrustful Award, is set to shift her focus within the thoroughbred industry, transitioning from race riding to a role as Clerk of the Course.

Van Munster has long been recognised for her commitment to the welfare of retired racehorses, actively involved in rehoming and rehabilitating thoroughbreds throughout her career.

She rode her first winner, Steel Mist, at just her fifth race ride at Elwick, and her biggest thrill in the saddle came on New Year’s Day when Distrustful Award delivered a memorable victory in the Longford Cup.

Across her riding career, Van Munster recorded 16 winners and 65 placings from 399 rides. One of her standout days came on 15 February this year, when she notched a double at Elwick — Outbush for John Luttrell and Magnolia Sky for leading trainer John Blacker.

In 2025, she was selected to represent Team Tasmania in the National Apprentice Race Series (NARS), riding in the opening round on home soil.

Her move into the Clerk of the Course ranks is a natural progression, having already spent considerable time performing the role at Tasmanian harness racing meetings, where her calm horsemanship and experience have been highly valued.

Van Munster’s reputation for professionalism, compassion, and strong horsemanship continues to define her contribution to the Tasmanian racing industry.