STAR Tasmania jockey Jason Maskiell celebrated his return to race riding from a suspension-enforced lay-off with a brilliant win aboard first-starter Apache Son in Launceston today.
Maskiell was back riding after a 10-month break and he had to work overtime to ensure victory aboard the well-bred four-year-old.
Apache Son (Golden Snake-Nkwazi) missed the start by four lengths and was still a clear last at the home turn but under strong riding from Maskiell the flashy chestnut gelding worked his way through the field and collared the leader about 100 metres from home and went ion to score well.
Maskiell was elated as he crossed the line signaling a single-digit finger to the crowd but aimed more at the trainer Vicki Rhind who has played an integral role in Maskiell’s rehabilitation process this past month.
Maskiell copped a six-month ban after being tested positive to methamphetamine at Echuca, Victoria, in August last year.
Maskiell took it upon himself to make dramatic changes to his lifestyle and be more particular about with whom he mixed socialized and as a result of that conviction he has emerged a stronger and wiser 21-year-old.
Listen to what jockey Jason Maskiell had to say about his first win back in the saddle and how his life has changed for the better – click here .