SEOW IS ADAPTING TO LIFE UP NORTH

No red carpet rolled out for S'pore champion apprentice in KL, she has to find her own way

- Michael Lee

Never in Jerlyn Seow's wildest dreams had she ever imagined she would one day be crowned Singapore champion apprentice jockey in a male-dominated sport, not once but twice.

After the 2023 and 2024 back-to-back titles, the world was her oyster. But, instead, it all came crashing down - for not just her, but for the whole local industry - after the Government's decision to shut racing down from Oct 5.

The Singaporean lass had actually not intended to see the world so soon, happy to just build on her home turf, but the Kranji closure has ultimately forced her hand.

Malaysia being just a stone's throw away, is probably not the first country that comes to mind for someone riding on such an upward spiral and with so much promise.

But, as it falls under the Malayan Racing Association umbrella, too, its licensing is easier, while Hong Kong, which topped her wish list, does not take foreign apprentices.

Like many of her peers, the 31-year-old was at the crossroads - either the former dog-cafe barista pivots to another career or she keeps her boots on.

Seow chose the latter after many discussions with husband Clifford, and sleepless nights.