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SARGA.CO – Amid the thunder of hooves and the roar of the crowd at Gelanggang Kubu Gadang, one figure captured everyone’s attention: Najla Al Balkis, the only female jockey competing at the Indonesia’s Horse Racing (IHR) Cup II 2025.
Dressed in striking red silks and a helmet, Najla looked confident astride Sri Aloy, a five-year-old chestnut stallion formerly known as Berlin Star. Competing in the Extra Class (600 meters) for the Pertamina Cup with a total prize of IDR 10 million, Najla’s appearance wasn’t just about racing—it was about representation and inspiration.
Facing three male jockeys, Najla showed no sign of intimidation. As soon as the starting gate flew open, Sri Aloy burst forward, quickly taking the lead. Cheers from the stands poured in, fueling the young jockey’s spirited performance.
Princess Xena, Bunga Warna, and Warna Sari proved to be tough opponents. Yet Najla and Sri Aloy dazzled in the early stretch, holding the lead through the first 400 meters. The pace heated up as Warna Sari, the pride of jockey Gery from Bukittinggi, began closing in, matching stride for stride.
In the final 200 meters, it turned into a nail-biting duel between Najla and Warna Sari’s jockey. The two raced side by side, electrifying the crowd along the rails.
Though she ultimately finished runner-up, Najla delivered a stellar performance. Warna Sari’s late burst in the last 100 meters proved unstoppable, but it did nothing to diminish Najla’s determination and poise as she guided Sri Aloy to the finish line.
In a sport long dominated by men, Najla’s presence brought a refreshing breakthrough. She has become a symbol that women, too, can compete—and even lead—on this demanding stage.
Sri Aloy, the horse she rode, is a cross between Our People and Gadis Berlin, bred by Shakira Hijab Stable—another noteworthy detail, as the stable itself is known for championing women’s roles in horse racing.
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