Clarken Racing | Clarken Racing News 57615 Prices Emotional Honour After Tragic Deaths Of Mum And Cousin

It's a testament to Ben Price's resilience that he has been able to perform at such a high level on the track, establishing himself of one of South Australia's leading riders, while navigating the anguish associated with two devastating personal tragedies.

The 21-year-old had to endure more than most in 2023 with the passing of his mother Belinda after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer compounded by the shock death of his 18-year-old cousin Charlie Stevens, who was struck by a car in a hit-and-run crash at Goolwa Beach during Schoolies week.

The fact he was able to ride 66 winners, finish fourth in the 2022-23 metro premiership and maintain that position this season, while also securing his maiden black-type victory aboard Coco Sun in the Listed Oaklands Plate, just highlights his mental toughness.

But when Price was named Dux of the Racing SA Apprentice Academy for the second straight year on Monday night, the emotion of it all, understandably, came flooding out.

"It's huge, it really means a lot to be honest, it's been a tough 12 months," Price said.

"Losing your mum is not easy and then losing your cousin, who's like your little brother, it's been hard.

"He was one of my best mates and it was terrible what happened to him. You could say we've had a rough year and a half, two years.

"I've got to thank a lot of my close friends who have been there for me along the way."

Asked how he found the capacity to keep riding in the face of adversity, Price knew he had to keep forging forward.

"It's what mum would've wanted – to keep going," he said.

"I've got to thank my bosses Will (Clarken) and Niki (O'Shea), they've helped me out a lot.

"Without my friends and family, I wouldn't be here winning this award."

Looking ahead, Price is now adjusting to life as a senior jockey but he's not setting any bold goals.

"I just hope to keep riding winners," he said.

"Will and Niki have guaranteed me a spot in their team, so that gives me a little bit of comfort to know I'm with the team that's winning the premiership at the moment."

Story from Racenet (Tom Biddington)