Tasmania has secured its first ever National Apprentice Race Series (NARS) crown, with the Apple Isle clinching the 2026 title at Murray Bridge in South Australia on Thursday. The breakthrough victory came after Jabez Johnstone delivered two crucial rides on the final day, collecting enough points to seal the trophy for his state.

First conducted in 2008, NARS brings together apprentice jockeys from across Australia to represent their state or territory in a series of designated races held nationwide. Points are awarded on a 7–4–3 basis for the first three placegetters, with one point allocated to each remaining state in every heat. The team with the highest aggregate at the end of the series is crowned the national champion.

Tasmania’s campaign began strongly when Lauryn Bingley delivered maximum points on her home track in Hobart, giving the team early momentum. Heading into the final day at Murray Bridge, Tasmania held a narrow three‑point lead, leaving the title wide open.

Johnstone’s runner‑up finish in the opening heat extended Tasmania’s advantage and placed the pressure squarely on the chasing states. In the final race of the series, his mount finished seventh — but the single point earned proved enough to secure Tasmania’s historic maiden NARS victory.

The 2026 Tasmanian team comprised:

• Jackson Radley (Team Captain)
• Kirra‑Lee Lane
• Lauryn Bingley
• Jabez Johnstone

Tasmania’s apprentices were guided throughout the series by Stephen Maskiell, the state’s Jockey Coach. A Tasmanian Racing Hall of Fame jockey who retired in 2014 after riding more than 1,700 winners, Maskiell now plays a pivotal role in developing the next generation of riders through Tasracing’s apprentice program based at Elwick. His experience, mentoring, and race‑day insight were instrumental in shaping Tasmania’s successful 2026 campaign.

Tasmania’s breakthrough NARS triumph marks a significant milestone for the state’s apprentice program and highlights the depth of emerging riding talent being developed locally.