Alicia Perkins(5)

The "(5)" next to her name is a small but meaningful detail for anyone new to racing: it means she currently claims a 5lb weight allowance, a perk given to apprentice jockeys to help level the playing field while they build experience. In simple terms, the horses she rides carry slightly less weight than they would with a more established jockey — which makes trainers more willing to give young riders a chance. It is the sport's way of saying: here is someone learning the craft, give them a shot.

Three rides is too small a sample to draw any conclusions. What matters right now is that she is getting opportunities, and every race is adding to a foundation that simply did not exist a few months ago.