Suraj Narredu’s journey from a childhood hobbyist to one of India’s most successful jockeys, with over 2,400 wins, is a testament to resilience and passion in a sport often overlooked in India. Coming from a family legacy in horse racing, Suraj initially struggled but soon found his footing, becoming the youngest Indian jockey to reach 1,000 wins. Despite his success, he acknowledges the challenges facing horse racing in India, including increased taxes, lack of government support, and dwindling popularity, emphasizing the need for better promotion and visibility to sustain the sport’s ecosystem.
Beyond the races, Suraj highlights the deep bond between jockey and horse, sharing emotional connections with horses like Be Safe and Star Superior. He maintains a rigorous physical and mental routine to compete at the highest level and aspires to inspire the next generation by advocating for mentorship and platforms similar to cricket’s IPL. Suraj envisions horse racing not just as tradition but as a global career opportunity, hoping his journey will pave the way for future Indian talent in the sport.