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SARGA.CO – Cheers erupted at Bukit Ambacang Racecourse, Bukittinggi, on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, as galloping hooves thundered down the track.
In the heat of a fiercely contested race, one name stood out—Najla Al Balkis, a 17-year-old jockey from Padang Panjang, who etched her name into the history books.
In her official racing debut, Najla delivered a sensational performance by winning the Sagalo Heat I – 600 meters.
She beat out several experienced male jockeys to claim the Nagura Stud and Stable Trophy, along with a cash prize of IDR 5 million.
Najla is now celebrated as the first female jockey in West Sumatra to win a title at the prestigious Wisata Derby 2025.
Najla said. A student at SMK Negeri 1 Padang Panjang, she has been riding horses since the age of 12.
Her coach, Doni Syafri, shared that Najla has undergone intensive training over the past five years.
“She has natural talent, determination, and discipline since she was little. This is the result of her dedication,” he said.
Najla’s path to the racetrack wasn’t always smooth. She had to withdraw from multiple races in the past due to a lack of parental consent.
“This year, she finally got the family’s blessing—and she proved she deserved to be there,” said her older brother, Abdi Salam.
Najla’s victory is about more than just a trophy. It symbolizes a breakthrough for women in a sport long dominated by men.
Her success is now an inspiration for young girls in Indonesia who dream of riding under the spotlight of the racing world.
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