Jockey's talent score her apprentice award

Scores of 100 per cent in all categories have led to Ashley Carmichael being named Lark Hill Apprentice Jockey of the Year.

Judges Bob McPherson and Bob Maumill commended Carmichael on her ability to work the horses and communicate effectively with the trainers about the performance of the horses she rode and presented her with the award, sponsored by Warnbro MLA Paul Papalia, earlier this month.

The 21-year-old said she had always wanted to be a jockey but was initially deterred by the high ratio of men compared to women in the sport and so took up eventing, training in Baldivis.

However, attending the equine program at Narrogin Boarding College spurred her interest in a racing career.

Despite taking a year off after falling off her horse six years ago, Carmichael refused to give up on her passion.

"I was campdrafting when the horse reared and rolled on to me and I broke my back and pelvis in eight places," she said.

As Serpentine trainer David Harrison's first-year apprentice, Carmichael has yet to compete in her first ride but has been training daily and attending numerous trials.

"I start at 5am every day and ride Bob McPherson and Bob Maumill's horses before heading to Mr Harrison's stables," she said.

"Mr Harrison said I need to be fitter than the boys if I want to compete.

"I go to the gym as much as possible and work on the mechanical horses.

"It's a fine line because I need to be strong but can't weigh too much - I am 49.5kg."

She said she looked forward to proving her ability on the track and hoped to ride in the Perth Cup within the next four years.