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Singaporean Jockey to Ride in Kentucky Derby - First Ever!

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 11:23 GMT by The Straits Times
      Locales: Kentucky, UNITED STATES

Louisville, Kentucky - February 22nd, 2026 - The roar of the crowd at Churchill Downs is about to get a distinctly Singaporean echo. Jockey Manoel Nunes will make history on May 1st, 2026, when he pilots Kentucky Phil in the 149th running of the Kentucky Derby. This unprecedented move marks the first time a jockey based in Singapore will compete in "The Most Exciting Two Minutes in Sports," a moment poised to significantly elevate the profile of Singaporean racing on the international stage.

Nunes, a dominant force in the Singaporean racing circuit, has quickly become a household name in Southeast Asian horse racing. His partnership with Kentucky Phil, a rising star trained by Ricardo Leiro, has been nothing short of spectacular. The duo recently cemented their credentials with impressive victories in both the Singapore Guineas and the Singapore Derby - performances that caught the eye of American racing insiders and ultimately paved the way for this Derby invitation.

"It's a dream come true," Nunes stated in a press conference held earlier today. "To represent Singapore at the Kentucky Derby is an immense honor. Kentucky Phil is a fantastic horse, and we're both ready for the challenge." Leiro echoed Nunes' sentiments, expressing confidence in the horse's ability to compete against the best three-year-olds in North America.

Beyond the Headlines: The Significance for Singaporean Racing

This isn't just about one jockey and one horse. Nunes' participation represents a watershed moment for Singaporean racing, a sport that has quietly built a reputation for strong training and skilled ridership. For years, the sport has faced challenges in gaining international recognition, often overshadowed by the more established racing powerhouses of the United States, Europe, and Australia. This Derby bid offers a unique opportunity to change that narrative.

The Singapore Turf Club has been a key supporter of Nunes' journey, providing resources and facilitating the logistical complexities of preparing for a race held halfway around the world. They see this as an investment in the future, hoping to attract more international attention and potentially foster collaborations with American trainers and owners.

"We are incredibly proud of Manoel and Kentucky Phil," said a spokesperson for the Singapore Turf Club. "Their success is a testament to the quality of racing in Singapore, and we believe this will open doors for other Singaporean jockeys and horses to compete on the global stage."

The Challenges Ahead: Adapting to the American Racing Landscape

While the excitement is palpable, the road to the Kentucky Derby won't be easy. American racing operates under a different set of rules and regulations than Singaporean racing. The competition is fierce, with a deep pool of talented horses and jockeys. Kentucky Phil will need to adapt to the different track surfaces - Churchill Downs features a dirt track, while Singapore's main track is turf - and the unique racing style prevalent in the United States.

Furthermore, Nunes will be competing against some of the most experienced and celebrated jockeys in the world. Navigating the crowded fields and intense pressure of the Derby requires not only skill but also strategic thinking and a cool head. The pressure will be immense, but Nunes has demonstrated a remarkable ability to perform under pressure throughout his career.

Kentucky Phil: A Horse to Watch

Kentucky Phil's journey to the Derby is a story in itself. Bred in the United States but campaigned primarily in Singapore, the colt has demonstrated a rare combination of speed, stamina, and determination. His victories in the Singapore Guineas and Derby were particularly impressive, showcasing his ability to handle challenging distances and compete against strong opposition. Leiro's training philosophy, emphasizing a patient approach and allowing the horse to develop at his own pace, has been instrumental in Phil's success.

Experts believe that Kentucky Phil's performance in the lead-up races to the Derby will be crucial. While he's proven his abilities in Singapore, he needs to demonstrate that he can compete with the best American three-year-olds. The Blue Grass Stakes and Santa Anita Derby are potential targets for the horse and jockey team prior to the main event.

Looking Forward: A Potential Legacy

Regardless of the outcome at Churchill Downs, Manoel Nunes and Kentucky Phil have already made history. Their participation in the Kentucky Derby is a testament to the growing strength of Singaporean racing and a beacon of hope for aspiring jockeys and trainers in the region. If they can pull off a victory, it would not only be a monumental achievement for Singapore but also a captivating story of international collaboration and sporting excellence, further solidifying the Kentucky Derby's place as a global event.