Beaux Banovic-Edwards named Great Southern’s top apprentice

Emerging apprentice Beaux Banovic-Edwards has claimed her first major piece of silverware in racing since she began in the saddle back in 2018.

Banovic-Edwards was named the leading apprentice in the Great Southern this season, recording 11 victories to finish well clear of her rival apprentices in the standings.

The 22-year-old won the major award ahead of Jade McNaught, Madi Derrick, Kristy Bennett, and Laqdar Ramoly, who all finished on four winners.

A big reason for her success was partnering evergreen 10-year-old Tranquilla Sunrise to five wins this season, including a remarkable run of four consecutive victories.

Banovic-Edwards said it was a special moment to win her first premiership.

“I’m pretty happy with it, it’s a nice little milestone,” Banovic-Edwards said.

“I couldn’t have done it without mainly Roy Rogers but I had a lot of support from everyone down there.

“He (Tranquilla Sunrise) got me most my winners for the season, we formed a great relationship.”

She was not always destined to be a jockey but comes from a strong racing background.

“I love the horses, the feeling of being in a race is amazing,” she said. “Winning is the best feeling you can experience.”

Banovic-Edwards is hoping this provincial triumph will help her get more opportunities at metropolitan level.

“Hopefully I can start getting more rides in town,” she said.

“It will be a challenge to get leading (metro) apprentice up there but that’s something I would love to achieve.

“Hopefully this award and season gets my name out there and I can start getting more opportunities.”

Rogers said Banovic-Edwards was a star in the making.

“I think she is the best 3kg claimer in town so hopefully trainers start using her a bit more,” Rogers said.

“She has really matured as a rider and gained confidence which you can see in her riding.

“She is good at rating them in front and getting them to relax under her.”