For once, Ruzaini Supien, champion jockey in Malaysia in 2024 with 61 winners that year, was lost for words after piloting Ocean Jupiter to victory in the final race – the Visit Malaysia – Penang Street Food Adventure Stakes (Class 5A – 1500m) – at Sungai Besi today.

He was overcome with emotion.

“I am speechless. I don’t know what to say” was his first comments after dismounting.

After composing himself somewhat, he said in between sobs: “I thought my life was gone.”

“I have to thank the stewards and the committee of the Selangor Turf Club for giving me this opportunity. I am very happy.

“Thank you so much for bringing my life back!”

After the highs of 2024, Ruzaini was dealt with a huge blow when he tested positive for substance abuse early last year and was suspended for one year.

Ruzaini’s win on Ocean Jupiter today was a year in the making, or more accurately, one year in the waiting for the jockey.

The son of Ocean Park won two races in Singapore in 2024.

After crossing the border to join trainer Ananthen Kuppan, Ruzaini rode the gelding in his first race in Malaysia in January last year. They finished ninth of 10 runners.

It was a more joyous occasion 12 months later.

Ruzaini had Ocean Jupiter settled second on the rails behind the pacemaker Imperial Concubine. When Dontellmywife and Rhett Butler moved up on his outside passing the 1000m, Ruzaini kept his cool, waiting for the right time to make his move.

Imperial Concubine drifted out making the turn into the straight, taking out Dontellmywife and Rhett Butler. That presented Ocean Park with a dream opening on the inside of the leaders and Ruzaini went for it.

Ocean Park drew level with Imperial Concubine at the 400m and from there, began to draw away  and went to the line 2-1/4 lengths clear of Imperial Concubine who held on for second.

Today was just Ruzaini’s second meeting back in action.