TORONTO, March 3, 2025 – Once a week, from January to April, Woodbine will profile a horse who had a life-changing impact on one of their closest connections in 2024. This week, jockey Keveh Nicholls and graded stakes winner Wicked Django. Nicholls, whose first lifetime win came aboard Rapid Response in Barbados in 2001, has 340 career victories in North America, including 10 stakes triumphs. Last year, the 38-year-old journeyman won a career-best 41 races and topped the $1 million plateau in purse earnings for the fourth consecutive campaign. “I always try to do better than the year before,” said Nicholls, whose first stakes win came with Raggidy Rowe in the 2006 Free Press Stakes, at Assiniboia Downs. “That is always my main objective. Being a jockey, there are always ups and downs, but you just have to keep believing in yourself and not get too down on yourself.” Wicked Django (ON) Bio Foaled: May 19, 2020 Sire: Wicked Strong Dam: Belcarres Starts: 12 Wins-Seconds-Thirds: 3-2-4 Earnings: $249,678 (U.S.) Notable races: Won the 2024 edition of the Grade 2 HPIbet Autumn Stakes. Third in last year’s Grade 3 Dominion Day Stakes. Third in last year’s Grade 2 Seagram Cup Stakes. Trainer: Rodney Barrow Owner: Ryan Brewster Breeders: Denny Andrews & Niall Brennan What went through your mind when you galloped out after Autumn Stakes? “When I crossed the wire in the Autumn, it was a dream come true. It was a fantastic race and such a great effort by Wicked Django.” Wicked Django and jockey Keveh Nicholls winning the HPIbet Autumn Stakes (G2) at Woodbine (Michael Burns Photo) Did you say anything to Wicked Django right after the wire? “I was so happy for the connections and for this beautiful horse. I remember seconds after we won, I said to Wicked Django, ‘Good boy, buddy, we did it!’ He deserved to win, and he showed just how talented he is. He took on tough competition and showed that he belongs.” What makes him such a special horse? “It is his grit and determination. He has an amazing personality and disposition both under saddle and on the ground. I am so happy to see him be a Sovereign Award finalist for the Champion Older Main Track Male award.” What are the three best words to describe Wicked Django? “Powerful. Smart. Resilient.” How has he changed your life? “Whenever I hear his name, I smile. It is always a pleasure to ride him, as he always tries and gives me 100 per cent when he goes out there. I am so thankful to the connections for giving me the opportunity to ride such an amazing horse.” Chris Lomon, Woodbine Share This:Share
