Jockey Keveh Nicholls is Ready to Rock

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.”

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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.”

A little girl on a pony with a woman and a man in Ocala.

Keveh Nicholls, fiancée Emily Fisher, and their daughter at World Equestrian Center – Ocala.

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.”