30 Seconds with jockey Muzi Yeni

You're regarded as a dedicated and professional jockey, but were you always responsible?

My grandparents raised me to be a solid citizen but I was lucky enough to attend good schools (Pinetown Junior and Pinetown High), before I went to boarding school at the Jockey Academy at Summerveld.

Has being pint-sized all your life been a disadvantage?

It was a problem until I became a jockey because I used to stand up to those who picked on me, and I got into a lot of fights as a kid.

How long have you been riding and what are your career highlights?

I was 15 when I went to the academy and graduated at 21. This is my third year as a qualified jockey and I rode in more races than any other SA jockey last season (1137), booting home 97 winners. I haven't ridden a Grade 1 winner yet, but was fourth in the 2009 Vodacom Durban July.

Describe your typical week.

When I'm not racing, I get up at 4am to work for three trainers at Summerveld, Colin Scott, Mike d e Kock and Kom Naidoo. I usually compete in races every second day . On Monday I'm in Kimberley, Wednesday in Durban or Pietermaritzburg, on Friday in Port Elizabeth and in KZN again on either Saturday or Sunday.

You'll be representing South Africa in the two upcoming Tests against international jockeys in Joburg and Cape Town next weekend. Have you represented South Africa before?

I represented my country in Korea in September, and the experience was incredible. I didn't win any of the Test races but I did pick up a winning ride on the day. The crowds there are huge and very enthusiastic, and the racing is very well presented.

Does your hectic schedule leave you time for a relationship?

I've been engaged for 2½ years and I met my fiance, Linda, through racing. She was a secretary at the National Horse Racing Authority's offices. We have a week-old daughter, Kim, but I'm steering clear of changing nappies because I need my sleep.

Is race riding nerve-wracking?

People have teased me about my squeaky voice, but you need balls of steel in this game and I've been very successful so far.