Top apprentice reunites with champion trainer for Derby

Top apprentice Linton Steadman has reunited with 16-time champion trainer Wayne DaCosta for Saturday's 97th running of the $8 million Boom Jamaica Derby over 12 furlongs at Caymanas Park.

Steadman will partner 2000 Guineas winner Fearless Samurai after DaCosta was forced to search among local-based jockeys, having failed to secure the services of 3-time champion Andrew Ramgeet who is based in the United States.

Following his graduation from the jockey's school in 2015, Steadman started out as one of the stable riders for DaCosta who was his apprentice master before moving over to arch rival Anthony ‘Baba’ Nunes.

“It looks like Linton Steadman will be riding him. He worked him this morning (Tuesday). His preparation has gone pretty well and he has done everything we have asked him,” said DaCosta.

Steadman who has been replaced by 3-time champion jockey Dane Nelson on Nunes' entry Sotomayor, is ecstatic about riding one of the highly-fancied runners for the 8-million dollar blue ribband event.

“It’s a great feeling to be riding a horse in the Derby and also a great feeling to be riding a horse with a winning chance,” said the top apprentice.

Meanwhile, the draw for the Derby post positions will take place on Wednesday afternoon in the trainers room at Caymanas Park starting at 2:30.