Crack lightweight rider Ryan Munger returns from a successful stint in Singapore and will be back in the saddle at his first meeting back on African soil at Turffontein on 27 December.
An excited Ryan, who rides comfortably at 52kgs, and can get down to 51kgs, said that he and his wife Kelsey were looking forward to returning home, but were extremely appreciative and thankful for the life and professional experience gained in their year away in Singapore.
Top lightweight Ryan Munger (Pic – JC Photos)
Ryan enjoyed solid support in a passionate racing country, where the mix of his pleasant demeanour and professional nature were well received.
Currently seventh on the Singapore jockey log with 17 winners, at a strike rate of just under 10% at his last ten meetings, Ryan had some thrilling close shaves in Gr1 features.
He ran second in all three legs of the 2020 Singapore Triple Crown, commencing with Sun Marshall in the first leg, while he rode Minister in the second and third legs. He also finished fourth in the Gr1 Kranji Mile.
The experience against international quality riders on a testing track in a pandemic ravaged year where life was turned upside down for all of us, sees him return to South Africa a more polished and mature rider.
It will be interesting to monitor his progress!
Ryan said he was champing at the bit and plans to travel nationally. He is keen to establish himself in other racing centres.
The former Zimbabwe champion had featured as a top tenner on the SA national log in the years prior to his Singapore adventure and has ridden close on 600 winners, with four at Gr3 level and six in Listed races here.
His first Gr3 wins came in the Caradoc Gold Cup with Ilitshe at Turffontein in 2017, while other notable feature wins include the Gr3 Graham Beck Stakes on National Park and the Gr3 Pretty Polly Stakes on Palace Of Dreams.
His spokesman Wade Viljoen told the Sporting Post that he was looking forward to having Ryan back.
“I was his Agent for some time prior to his departure and we worked well together. Ryan’s work ethic, interpersonal skills and professionalism in the saddle makes him a sought after jockey. His strength as a balanced lightweight was in evidence before he left for Singapore and he will have learnt and grown from the experience,” added Viljoen.
Inquiries regarding Ryan’s availability in any region – please contact Wade Viljoen 064 685 6946
