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Singapore is the second port of call South African jockey Juan Paul van der Merwe has picked in his quest for greener pastures.

Regarded among the most promising jockeys to have come through the South African riding ranks in recent years, the 27-year-old, however, felt his career had stalled a little shortly after he gained his highest accolade - the Group 1 J&B Met on pick-up ride Smart Call in 2016.

Like many jockeys in search of novel experiences, van der Merwe went scanning further afield.

Mauritius was the first stepping stone to his international journey last year. The Indian Ocean island is popular with South African jockeys given its proximity, but this time van der Merwe is venturing further out.

“I’ve always done okay in South Africa, but I felt it was time to go overseas,” said the former South African champion apprentice jockey.

“I should have sent my CV after the J&B Met, but I waited a year or two and I got a bit down. That’s when I knew it was the right time to travel.”

After a flying start in Mauritius back in April, things went quiet before he returned home in November. Van der Merwe still bowed out on fourth place on the log for a decent record of 18 winners in 117 rides.

The wanderlust had not waned, though. Somehow, there was again a Mauritian connection to his second voyage.

“Mauritius was okay, but I’m back home now and taking it easy in Johannesburg,” he said.

“But I was also looking for another challenge. Nooresh Juglall and I are good mates, and he’s the one who suggested I send my CV to Singapore.

“I’m thankful to the Singapore Turf Club for having given me a chance with a one-year licence.”

A graduate of the South African Jockey’s Academy, van der Merwe has booted home more than 700 winners including 11 at Group level for various top trainers such as Glen Kotzen, Michael Azzie, Mike de Kock, Alec Laird and Sean Tarry.

While the Group 1 J&B Met remains his career highlight, he does boast other big race success in the Supreme Cup, Debutante and Gold Bowl, all Group 2 events.

The lightweight jockey (he rides at 50kgs) is currently still in South Africa while waiting for his paperwork to be completed.

“I’m still waiting for my work permit to be approved. I’m hoping to be in by the second week of January,” said van der Merwe who will come up with girlfriend Abigail.