Twenty-year-old apprentice jockey Indi Bowles celebrated a memorable milestone at Mowbray on Friday night, riding her first career winner aboard the Graeme McCulloch-trained Popilita.
The six-year-old daughter of Stratosphere led for most of the 1100-metre contest before holding on to claim race seven, giving Bowles a breakthrough victory at just her 15th race ride.
Bowles, who commenced her race-riding career at Devonport on September 2, had recorded four placings before finally breaking through aboard the mare prepared by her master, Graeme McCulloch.
An emotional Bowles struggled to contain her feelings when interviewed by Tasracing’s Colin McNiff following the victory.
“I’m just very emotional at the moment. Graeme has been very patient with me. I’ve definitely slaughtered a few, so he’s been good,” Bowles said.
It was a special moment for the young apprentice, who has worked hard under McCulloch’s guidance at his Whitemore training establishment.
Popilita was also overdue for a return to the winner’s circle, having not tasted success since December 28 last year.
However, the mare had shown encouraging signs in a recent trial, suggesting she was ready to return to winning form.
Despite experiencing setbacks throughout her career, Popilita has now built an impressive record of seven wins from 27 starts.
McCulloch revealed following the race that the mare had overcome significant physical challenges.
“She’s had a couple of knee surgeries,” he said.
The victory was another success for Tasmanian-based stallion Stratosphere, who stands at Grenville Stud.
For Bowles, however, Friday night’s win will be one she remembers for a long time, marking the first major milestone in what promises to be an exciting riding career
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