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SARGA.CO—Jemmy Runtu, a horse racing jockey from North Sulawesi, representing King Halim Stable. His hard work and consistency over 16 years have been the foundation of his success in the world of horse racing until today.
Since childhood, Jemmy was known by his friends for being very fast when running, earning him the nickname “Kilat”. Eventually, this nickname became fitting as he also demonstrated incredible speed when riding racehorses.
Starting as a groom, Jemmy was later trusted to become a jockey, which drove him to constantly learn and strive to give his best. His achievements are not only for himself and his stable but also for his family.
In an interview with the Sarga.co team, Jemmy explained that horse racing is not just a job to support his family but has become a hobby. He doesn't feel burdened by it and enjoys the activity, saying, “The important thing is not to stress, just make yourself happy,”
For him, training and horse racing activities help him release stress and frustration. Despite receiving harsh criticism and comments from those around him, Jemmy remains positive, choosing to find solutions rather than dwelling on negativity.
Like other jockeys, before a race, Jemmy maintains consistent physical training. “For preparation, the most important thing is routine training and proper management. Jogging if possible, fitness exercises, and so on. The most important preparation is daily training,” he said.
His thorough preparation always leads Jemmy to victory. For example, in the July, Kejuaraan Nasional Pacuan Kuda Seri 01 Indonesia Derby, with his horse Rapid Dash, he won first place in Kelas 3 Tahun A/B 2.000 meters.
Later in the same year, in September, Jemmy also won a gold medal at the PON XXI Aceh-Sumut in Kelas A 2.200 meters.
Jemmy's brilliant performance was further demonstrated by his consecutive wins at the 58th National Horse Racing Championship Pordasi Series II in 2024, held in Tegalwaton in November. He took home two trophies in prestigious classes during a single race.
In Kelas A Terbuka “Star Of Stars” 2.200 meters, Jemmy led Queen Divona to victory. Shortly after, he moved on to Kelas A “Super Sprint” 1.300 meters, riding Queen Thalassa.
Jemmy explained that his victories were not achieved instantly and required long-term effort.
Caring for horses from conception to the point they are ready to race, building a good relationship with the horse, establishing trust, planning strategies, and maintaining his own physical health and fitness—these disciplines and consistency are what brought Jemmy to his current position.
Jemmy has faced feelings of despair, lack of confidence, and deep discouragement. He shared that there have been many heartbreaking moments in his journey as a jockey.
One of these was in 2006, when he was actively racing at Pulo Mas. He broke a bone in his lower body, which left him unable to walk. His horse stopped and stood still, causing Jemmy to fall, and the horse fell on top of him, injuring him severely.
At the time, Jemmy was given a prognosis that he would be unable to continue his activities for up to six months. He also revealed that he now has four pins in his body as a result of the broken bones from the fall.
However, with his strong will to recover, within 3–4 months, he was back racing. “It didn't break my spirit because I was doing my job and my hobby, so I just kept going as normal,” he explained.
That experience became a valuable lesson for Jemmy to continue striving to be a better jockey.
Jemmy encourages fellow jockeys and aspiring jockeys to stay consistent and not underestimate this sport. He also emphasized the importance of asking questions and always learning to do their best.
“The most important thing is to stay consistent, be willing to learn, and never take horse racing lightly. We must always keep learning. There’s always something new to learn,” he said.
As a jockey, Jemmy feels the government needs to pay more attention to the world of horse racing, especially in terms of facilities and the well-being of jockeys.
For example, creating specialized schools for jockeys to better prepare them for races would be a positive step forward. Additionally, improving racetrack facilities would be beneficial.
“As a jockey, I hope that horse racing in Indonesia can advance, especially in terms of tracks, and perhaps there could be schools for jockeys to help them be more prepared for competitions,” he said.
Jemmy added that jockeys currently train with previous coaches only. He himself never received formal training and learned through self-teaching, even hiring experts from abroad to further his skills.
“Most jockeys here are self-taught. So, having jockey schools could help them become more properly prepared for races. I was initially self-taught, just taught by coaches. Over time, I started learning more, even hiring outsiders for lessons,” he explained.
Jemmy's dedication and perseverance in horse racing are truly admirable. His determination and consistency are key factors in his success. Obstacles and failures have never caused him to give up; instead, he uses them as lessons to improve and become even better.
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