Stent top gal on the Goldfields with quintet
At just 19 years of age, Emma Stent pulled off a feat most jockeys can only dream of achieving.
The little-known apprentice stole the show at Kalgoorlie on Saturday, riding five winners on the seven-race card.
It was a girls' day out on the Goldfields, with all seven races won by female apprentices.
Lucy Warwick and Shelby Bowtell chimed in with a win each as Stent booted home Casino Gleam (race one), Hurricane Coming (two), Super Ninny (four), Prince Of Stars (six) and Comanche Red (seven).
At Kalgoorlie's opening meeting of the year a week earlier, Stent rode a double.
"It was amazing. I definitely didn't expect that," Stent said.
"I was just happy with the first one, but then they just kept coming."
Indentured to top trainer Alan Mathews, Stent kicked off her career on the North West country racing circuit last year.
Injuries have held her back from riding regularly on provincial tracks.
"I had two months off when I did my AC joint and then the morning I was meant to get my clearance I got kicked in the face by a horse," Stent said. "I broke a few bones and had surgery."
Stent, who competed in eventing as a junior, has worked tirelessly at Mathews' stables for the past two years.
Mathews was delighted with Stent's display at Kalgoorlie.
"She's a bit of a natural," Mathews said. "She's put her head down and worked hard.
"She didn't get her licence until halfway through the Carnarvon season and she was injured when Geraldton started. She's fortunate she's kicked in from day one at Kal."
Stent said mentoring from Mathews and his No.1 jockey, Patrick Carbery, had given her a big boost.
"I wouldn't want to be apprenticed to anyone else. I've got so much respect for Alan," Stent said.
"Patrick Carbery helps me heaps and it's good to have those two helping me.
"I've always wanted to be a jockey. I just love horses."
