Jockey Neeraj Rawal, who partnered the horses of RWITC Committee Member and Equus Stud Farm owner Shyam Ruia, is extremely excited over his forthcoming stint in France. The 21-year old jockey is schedule to join the stables of top-notch trainer Andre Fabre. Mr Ruia, under whose retainership Neeraj has been thriving, has apparently arranged the assignment for the promising young jockey. Neeraj, who started as an apprentice under trainer Subhag Singh, has come a long way from his early days. "I scored my maiden victory in Mysore astride Rosno Whisky trained by B. Sandhu in 2004. In less than 20 months from there on, I scored my 40th victory and shed my allowance claiming status," said Neeraj. Neeraj worked his way up and started winning important races like the Fillies and Mares Stakes and the RWITC Invitational Cup in Pune. Recently, he won the Mystical Stayers' Cup early in the Mumbai Season. It was, however, the current Calcutta season in which Neeraj really blazed to glory. He shot into limelight when he booted home four winners on a single day. He also won the Indian Produce Stakes and the Calcutta Gold Cup. He has made his presence felt at Calcutta, and at his home turf Mumbai, in no uncertain terms. "Jockey Malesh Narredu, my uncle, is a great inspiration. It was watching him win races that inspired me to go for the profession at the cost my academics. I have no regrets that I could not complete my education as I am thoroughly enjoying myself and I take my profession very seriously. I was fortunate to learn a lot from Malesh Narredu. There have also been many other great jockeys that I had the good fortune to have shared the jockeys' room with. I am particularly grateful to Jockey Neil McCullagh, who gave me lots of riding tips and guidance in my early days. He was very helpful. I was impressed by the humble demeanour of this great racing personality," said a clearly overawed Neeraj. Asked to elaborate on his forthcoming journey to France, Neeraj said, "When Ruia sir told me about the possibility of going to France and work under Mr Fabre, I was thrilled and was instantly grateful to my boss. This trip means a lot to me and I am sure I will return a much better jockey. It will be a great learning experience and this is one big moment in my career. This is the best time too because I am high on confidence and in good touch. My Calcutta stint for Mr Khaitan has been fruitful and my current form is very satisfying. I have ridden close to 50 winners in the last 4-5 months. I know I will do well in France and I am raring to go." There is no doubt whatsoever that this is a great impetus for Neeraj and he is embarking on a very important journey on a three-month stint from 8th May onwards. Not many get the opportunity to ride for the stables of the well-acclaimed trainer Andre Fabre. Neeraj should make the most of it and Indiarace wishes the young, talented jockey all the very best.