Hong Kong apprentice hits the ground running in WA

Neville Parnham is as qualified as anyone to make an assessment on apprentice jockeys, and he likes what he has seen from Rocky Cheung.

Parnham is the father to star jockeys Steven, Brad and Chris and has successfully mentored a host of young riders throughout his time in racing.

Under Parnham’s expert guidance and tutelage, a galaxy of top junior riders has made the successful transition from apprentice to senior jockey ranks.

Perth is Cheung’s new home after he cut his teeth in Hong Kong and Parnham says he’s adapted to his new surroundings very well.

Cheung kicked off his Perth journey in March and has hit the ground running riding four winners for the month, his tally boosted after a Pingrup double.

After a win on the grass at Albany, Cheung landed his first winner for his new boss when combining with Good Vibes at Narrogin last weekend.

Parnham said Cheung’s early education in Hong Kong has helped push along his start in WA racing.

“He came from Hong Kong clearly advanced as far as experience and early education goes,” Parnham said on Tabradio.

“He was able to compete in a hundred plus barrier trials over there, so when he lobbed here, he was nearly ready to go.

“He’s definitely advanced quickly and is extremely well liked by people and staff around the place, fellow trainers and riders.

“He’s quite a nice kid and he will go a long way in a career being a jockey, for sure.

“He’s advanced quite quickly.”

Cheung has seen a good part of WA already, riding at Narrogin, Pingrup, Albany and Geraldton.

He’s just one mini milestone way in taking the next step in town.

“He’s willing to learn and is getting great feedback,” Parnham said.

“He’s taking it all in to see how it can help his style.

“He’s already ridden four winners and is one win from being able to compete on a metropolitan mid-week meeting.

“He’s going to be a good addition and I’m sure he’s going to be well supported.”