Jockey Keveh Nicholls. (Michael Burns Photo)
By Chris Lomon, Woodbine Communications / @WoodbineComms
TORONTO, Ont. – In this week’s edition of MMQP, multiple graded stakes-placed jockey Keveh Nicholls shares his thoughts on his 2023 campaign and looks forward to the 2024 Woodbine season.
Starting Gate
- Eclipsed the $1 million mark in purse earnings for the third consecutive campaign
- Won the inaugural edition of the Pink Lloyd Stakes with Rockcrest
- Had six top-three finishes in 18 stakes appearances in 2023
- Is one win away from 300 for his career
- First lifetime win came on May 7, 2004, at Assiniboia Downs, when he partnered with Aztek Sky for an 11-1 upset
Opening Quarter
“My goal was to win a stakes race, so it was kind of funny that my first win of the year happened to be the Pink Lloyd Stakes. I wanted to win another one, but I was very happy to have won that race and to win it with such a nice horse like Rockcrest.”
“It was very thrilling to win that race. He is a horse I have ridden in the past and Nigel [trainer, Burke] is a very good friend of mine. So, it was nice to get that win for Nigel and his barn.”
“My agent [Ken Zweig] did a very good job. It was nice to have as many opportunities as I did, and I am very grateful to the trainers who gave me the chance to ride their horses. I felt very good going into the year and I wanted to be as consistent as I could throughout the season.”
Half Mile
“I always try to do better than the year before. That is always my main objective. Being a jockey, there are always ups and downs, but you just have to keep believing in yourself and not get too down on yourself.”
“Overall, I was happy with how the year started and I think it went well from there. I felt confident every time I rode.”
“As the year goes on, you work to keep getting better and keep moving forward. There were no injuries that I had to deal with, which I was thankful for. I can say it was a good year.”
Stretch Drive
“This winter, we decided to come to Florida. I was in Tampa last year and this year, we came to Ocala. I’m here with my fiancée Emily [Fisher] and my daughter. It’s nice to have them here with me. I’m getting on horses for [Woodbine-based trainer] Ted Holder and riding a few here and there at Tampa. It keeps the mind and body fit.”
“I guess you can see it as somewhat of a working vacation. I get to enjoy time with Emily and my daughter, but I also get to ride and be ready to go when the season starts at Woodbine.”
Finish Line
“I am very excited for 2024 at Woodbine. I want to build off last year and as always, I would like to do better than the year before.”
“I’m looking forward to getting back to Toronto. It’s a nice feeling knowing the season is getting closer. You get that excitement going and you always look forward to that first race. Whatever opportunity comes my way, I want to make the most of it.”
Winner’s Circle
Links to stories with Keveh Nicholls:
Jockeys Canada – Keveh Nicholls Bio
Weekend Notables and Quotables June 3-4
Rockcrest All Heart in Pink Lloyd Stakes
Stand and Deliver: This is Rockcrest
Caribbean Times – Nicholls lands maiden Woodbine stakes success for Burke
