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SARGA.CO – Amid the thunder of hooves and the roar of the crowd at the racetrack, an uncommon sight emerges: a petite, hijabi teenage girl, her eyes unwavering, riding a racehorse with remarkable confidence.
Meet Aqiilah Annajiibah, a 19-year-old female jockey from Malang, Indonesia. In a male-dominated sport, Aqiilah is a breath of fresh air, bringing not only courage but also a bold new spirit to the horse racing world.
Aqiilah’s journey into the world of jockeying didn’t begin in a professional arena. It started at her own backyard stable. During the COVID-19 lockdown, while outdoor activities were limited, Aqiilah found herself growing closer to horses.
she recalled during her interview with SARGA.CO.
The turning point came when she was tasked with escorting one of her family’s horses for breeding. There, she met a trainer who saw her potential.
“The trainer asked, ‘Do you like horses?’ I said, ‘Yes, I do.’ Then he told me to ride a stallion for training,” said Aqiilah.
The trainer later contacted the horse’s owner to request permission for Aqiilah to train more seriously—and got the green light, along with her parents’ blessing.
She then traveled to Pasuruan to train under Yorri Lampus, a senior trainer and legendary figure in Indonesian horse racing.
She spent a full year sharpening her skills—learning balance, control, and horse psychology.
In 2021, at 15 years old age, she entered her first official race.
she said with a bright smile.
Unlike most teens her age, Aqiilah follows a strict physical training routine. She lifts weights and trains at the stable four times a week. On other days, she practices at home with her own horses.
Being a female jockey in Indonesia isn’t easy. Aqiilah admitted that in the beginning, many doubted her abilities.
“There’s always skepticism—like, ‘Can a girl really compete in races?’ she said.
she added with determination.
Today, Aqiilah isn’t just a young female jockey—she’s a symbol of strength, ambition, and possibility. She stands as a beacon for young women in Indonesia, proving that with courage and grit, even the toughest arenas can be conquered.
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