Apprentice jockey Jaylah Kennedy rides ‘big teddy bear’ Berkeley Square to maiden victory in hometown Ballarat Cup

It felt like the stars were aligned for Berkeley Square to win the Listed Ballarat Cup (2000m) with local trainer Dan O’Sullivan reuniting with stable apprentice Jaylah Kennedy to claim their hometown cup.

Kennedy, who had ridden Berkeley Square in his first six runs this campaign, including two victories at open level, was not aboard last week in the Group 2 Zipping Classic (2400m).

But she provided a perfect trip with the $6 chance to deny Lady In Pink ($12) by a short neck with Globe ($13) just a head behind her in third.

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Berkeley Square have competed seven times this campaign, winning twice and qualifying at group level in their last four.

O’Sullivan said he had backed himself and the horse to turn around seven days later and perform at their best.

“Just bloody brilliant. For a lot of reasons, just because of the horse, because of Jayla,” O’Sullivan said.

“Lots of support here today. We supported the horse, we supported ourselves, we supported him. And he got the job done.

“He’s a machine. He is healthy. He tries every time. It doesn’t look like it’s going fast, but it has a huge stride. And a big thrill for my team at home.

“The whole team at home, they do all the hard work … he’s a big horse, a little clumsy at times, and this girl did a great job riding.”

It was Kennedy’s first win at group or registered level and the young apprentice was delighted after the race to get aboard her favorite horse, with whom she has developed a strong bond.

“I couldn’t believe it, to be honest. I’m just so happy to be in the position I’m in and this horse. That horse took me on such a journey in the spring,” Kennedy said.

Kennedy executed his plan to perfection, managing to stay clear of the barrier two fence and work his way across the field, an animated fist bump as he crossed the line signifying victory.

“When I wanted him to come back, he came straight back to me and that’s what he did and we’ve been following the right horses ever since. The gap opened. And gosh, he’s so good over 2,000,” Kennedy said.

“It’s so easy to handle at home. He has the biggest personality…he is very fluffy. I just love it. He’s like a big teddy bear.