Jockeys’ World Cup returns to Ellerslie

Last year’s JWC winning team of Ryan Elliot (left), Sam Weatherley, and Wiremu Pinn. Photo: Trish Dunell

Ellerslie Racecourse will play home to the third annual Barfoot & Thompson Jockeys’ World Cup (JWC), with the competition taking place at their December 12 meeting.

Four teams of three riders will be competing to accumulate points throughout the meeting, with the winning team and individual presented with an award and a cash prize.

Points will be awarded to the first five horses to finish in each of the six races, while horses will be randomly allocated a jockey.

This year, jockeys will be distinguished by their breeches, which have been specifically designed for the event by WORLD’s Benny Castle. 

Last year, the apprentice team were convincing winners, while the international team took out the inaugural competition in 2017.

2020 Teams:

The Blues Men

  • Leith Innes
  • Craig Grylls
  • Ryan Elliot

The Mystics Women

  • Danielle Johnson
  • Lisa Allpress
  • Sam Spratt

Badminton NZ Young Guns (apprentices)

  • Sam Weatherley
  • Taiki Yanagida
  • Kozzi Asano

The Breakers International

  • Ben Allen (VIC)
  • Jordan Childs (VIC)
  • James Winks (VIC)