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Racing SA appoints Dean Pettit as Jockey Coach

Racing SA is excited to announce former jockey and racing presenter Dean Pettit has been appointed as the organisation’s new Jockey Coach to further the development of South Australian riders.

Pettit has extensive experience in varied roles across the thoroughbred racing industry, having previously worked with Racing Victoria’s Apprentice Academy, as a stable foreman and trackwork rider. He was an apprentice and licensed senior jockey in the 1990s.

Most recently Pettit has been a rider agent, and he has also worked as a producer and presenter with Racing.com – a role which saw him focused on interviews and on-course hosting at Melbourne and Sydney race meetings.

Racing SA CEO Nick Redin said South Australian racing would benefit from Pettit’s appointment.

“This role is a newly created one which will be critical in helping to continue to develop the pool of rider talent we have in South Australia,” Redin said.

“Dean has in-depth knowledge of thoroughbred racing and already holds strong experience successfully training and mentoring a number of jockeys.

“He will predominantly be working with Apprentice Academy Master, Briony Moore, but will also support our Industry Development and Training Officer, Clare Lindop, to assist our riders across all levels – from those starting out as a track rider through to our apprentices and senior jockeys.”

The full-time position will be focused on developing local riders’ skills across all aspects – from track walking, to form, race day procedures, race reviews and performance analysis, technique, tactics, business models and personal brand.

Pettit said he was thrilled to have the opportunity to join the Racing SA team.

“I’m really looking forward to working with South Australia’s jockeys and trackwork riders to assist them to continue to improve and reach greater success,” Pettit said.

“It’s a wonderful initiative by Racing SA to have this role and support available to local riders so they can continue to receive one-on-one coaching and advice, as most athletes do, throughout all stages of their career.

“My current work as a rider agent has seen me assist a number of local jockeys with their overall development. This is something I have enjoyed immensely and certainly sparked my passion and interest in this position.  

“It’s wonderful to now have the opportunity to contribute to the progression and continued improvement of racing more broadly across SA.”

Pettit will commence in the role in November.

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