Rookie rider Richie Shakes etched his name into early 2025 racing headlines by capturing his third career victory—an achievement unmatched among his fellow apprentices. The milestone unfolded on Saturday, January 18, 2025, when he expertly piloted Benson to a triumphant finish in the six-furlong George HoSang Trophy.
Trained by the experienced Fitznahum Williams, Benson launched out of the gates with startling speed, guided by Shakes’s razor-sharp instincts. Shakes immediately seized control of the race, positioning Benson at the front and ensuring he maintained a smooth, sustainable pace. As the race neared its climax, Benson’s energy reserves proved to be the decisive factor, allowing him to withstand late challenges and secure the win.
Crossing the finish line in a commendable 1:14.3, Benson finished 1½ lengths ahead of Mudshaft, ridden by Trevor Simpson, with Thalita under Robert Halledeen rounding out the top three finishers. Speaking afterward, Shakes underscored the importance of sticking to the trainer’s strategy. “We knew Benson’s speed would give us an edge from the outset, so my focus was on pushing forward quickly and managing his stamina,” he explained.
The victory also highlighted Shakes’s progress since his first licensed triumph on December 28, 2024. “Notching three wins feels incredible, but I see it as another stepping stone,” the apprentice reflected. “My priority remains growth. I’m committed to learning from every race and honing my skills so that I can bring home more victories in the future.”
With Shakes continuing to refine his craft, race enthusiasts will be watching closely to see where this ambitious apprentice’s passion and talent will lead him next.
