Chen Li
An ongoing dedication away from the racetrack is bearing fruit for the China Horse Club’s Barbados based jockey, Chen Li, who has been singled out to ride the leading chance Verden in the $10,000 The Drill Hall Betting Booth Trophy (1800m) this Monday.
The 26-year-old has worked tirelessly on his fitness and on improving his skillset with the assistance of leading trainers Robert Peirce and Victor Cheeseman during his time in Barbados and this work ethic has not been lost on the local industry.
Chen Li and his close friend and fellow China Horse Club jockey Qin Yong are also working regularly with the local charity HORSE, which helps rehabilitate horses who have been poorly cared for, as well as attending cultural events in Barbados to build relations between China and the island nation.
Chen Li(2nd from left) & Qin Yong(3rd from left)
“We are working very hard in Barbados to make the most of our opportunities and it is rewarding to be supported like this. Verden has been preparing well for this race and I believe I can give him his chance to run very well,” Chen Li said.
“It will be a competitive race, especially with Treasure Island who is a good horse for Mr Nunes, but Verden deserves to be considered as one of the leading chances.”
Chen Li and Qin Yong made international headlines when Qin Yong became the first jockey from Mainland China to win a thoroughbred race outside of Asia in February this year. The win came on the biggest stage in the Caribbean being on the Sandy Lane Gold Cup program.
“We are extremely proud of the efforts of both Chen Li and Qin Yong. They are ambassadors not only for the China Horse Club but also for the industry in China,” said Teo Ah Khing, Chairman of the China Horse Club.
“It is never easy to be a trailblazer, to be the one who sets the path for others to follow. You must tackle challenges, you must break down barriers, you must make personal sacrifices. Chen Li and Qin Yong are doing this and they are doing themselves and everyone else proud.
“In time there will be other jockeys from Mainland China who will compete overseas and they will also play a role in inspiring a new generation who want to play a role in China’s emerging thoroughbred industry.”
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