Do you know that the world’s youngest licensed racehorse trainer comes from Sabah, Malaysia?
She is none other than 13-year-old Isabelle Lonjuing Sayeed, who recently received recognition from the Royal Sabah Turf Club (RSTC).
On 26 November 2020, the Club issued her with a license to become a professional trainer and stable agent.
With that, Isabelle becomes the youngest professional horse rider in the world, surpassing Bailey Rogerson of New Zealand, who at 16 received similar recognition in 2017.
Having been exposed to the oldest sports at a very young age, the Penampang lass is no stranger to horseback riding.
At five-years-old, Isabelle was already learning to properly ride a horse with her grandfather as a mentor. Her interest in horseback riding not only proved to be a long-term hobby but also a career in the making.
After accumulating experience as a polo player under the Sabah Polo Association, Isabelle founded El Venato Polo – the first women’s polo team in Sabah.
“I was given the trust to be the captain of the team. I know this is not an easy road but with the support of family members, I am ready to face challenges ahead,” she says.
According to Isabelle, her horse riding training began at Glenora Stables in Kinarut, Sabah under the guidance of her grandfather as well as trainer Susan Doughlas, and her daughter Claire Mosun.
Early this year, she furthered her knowledge and skill at the Kuala Lumpur Academy Of Polo, with Peter Abisheganaden as his mentor.
Abisheganaden is executive secretary of the Royal Malaysian Polo Association (RMPA). He is also the RMPA league coordinator.
Her trainer Susan Douglas says Isabelle was trained through intensive courses in every aspect of racehorse training, and horse as well as stable management.
“Apart from owning ILS Stable Horse, she is also a qualified race starter, obstacle tester, and equine nutritionist,” she adds.
Isabelle is scheduled to undergo training in the United States, with Bob Baffert as her coach, in next summer.
About the author
Recqueal Raimi
Recqueal Raimi is a freelance writer and an award-winning journalist from Tuaran, Sabah. Apart from writing, he is also a photography and videography enthusiast. In his free time, he goes fishing and does BETTA fish farming.