‘Gigolo’ Mohammed Jockey School tutor

The Apprentice Jockey School, which folded 12 years ago, will soon be re-opened. And experienced ex-rider Shaffick “Gigolo” Mohammed was re-appointed to the position by the Trinidad and Tobago Racing Authority at a meeting of the board yesterday. Mohammed got the nod over a number of applicants interviewed for the position. According to Trinidad and Tobago Racing Authority secretary David Loregnard, he will bring a lot more experience to the institution, which closed its doors in 1992. Mohammed served as assistant to Englishman Tommy Carter at the inaugural  riding school conducted at Union Park, Marabella, in 1981.

Popularly known in racing circles as “Gigs,” Mohammed was elevated to the post of tutor from 1987 when Carter returned to England, and was still at the helm when the school folded in 1992. Among top riders to pass under the tuition of Mohammed are current champion Brian Harding, Dale Whittaker and Ricardo Jadoo who was leading rider in 2001. In addition to being blessed with the patience and knowledge of polishing the skills of aspiring young riders, Mohammed will bring added experience to the job, having spent the past decade in the United States as an assistant to Hall of Fame trainer Allen Jergens, Steve Jergens and Steve Young.