3 minute read

Decent draw for Louis in two dedicated NARS races.

The 2022 National Apprentice Race Series (NARS) commences at Strathalbyn in South Australia on Wednesday, where Mauritian-born apprentice Brandon Louis will wear the Tasmanian colours for his adopted home state.

Apprentices from Tasmania, South Australia, Queensland, and Victoria are contesting the series in 2022 with races five and seven on Wednesday's program the dedicated points races.

For 25-year-old Louis, it will be the second time he has competed in the NARS.

"When I was in Perth, I remember being in one, but I think representing Tasmania is the first time," said Brandon Louis.

Louis has drawn to ride the top weight in the first of the apprentice only races on Wednesday, the Phillip Stokes-trained Koruto who will jump from barrier two.

"He's one of the good stables in South Australia there Phillip Stokes, so it gives me a bit more confidence.

"I've been watching the replays and going through the recent form of the horse. I think he appears a nice winning chance," explained Louis on the 4YO gelding who finished fourth last time out.

On paper, Louis' second ride of the day appears the weaker of his two rides, partnering the Jon O'Connor-trained Better who rises in distance after three unplaced runs to open her campaign.

"I won't go in with too many plans, we'll see how she jumps and go from there," Louis said.

Along with Codi Jordan, Erica Byrne Burke and Taylor Johnstone, Tasmania has a strong contingent of apprentices for the 2022 NARS and Louis is looking forward to the challenge.

"It should be a pretty good experience.

"I know Dominic Tourneur (senior SA jockey) is Mauritian born like me, but I don't know many of the apprentices so I'm excited to learn more about them."

The first of the NARS races is the fifth event at Strathalbyn on Wednesday and is scheduled for 15:25 (SA time).