David Payne says Chad Schofield was born for a career in the saddle and has backed the youngster to be a success as a jockey.Schofield, son of top Sydney-based jockey Glyn, will have his first race rides at Newcastle on Saturday having been granted his licence after competing in five barrier trials at Rosehill on Tuesday.Payne said it was a special day for the fledgling apprentice to get his riding ticket, and believes he has every chance of making it provided he keeps his feet on the ground and

David Payne says Chad Schofield was born for a career in the saddle and has backed the youngster to be a success as a jockey.

Schofield, son of top Sydney-based jockey Glyn, will have his first race rides at Newcastle on Saturday having been granted his licence after competing in five barrier trials at Rosehill on Tuesday.

Payne said it was a special day for the fledgling apprentice to get his riding ticket, and believes he has every chance of making it provided he keeps his feet on the ground and "doesn't get cheeky".

"He's a natural rider, bred to be a jockey," Payne said.

"He studies form, he works hard, he's a very dedicated young man.

"I think he's got every chance of making it.

"I've had quite a few apprentices with me in my time, guys like Douglas Whyte, and this kid is right up there with them."

The 16-year-old rode three trial winners on Tuesday and has successfully completed the minimum 20 satisfactory barrier trials to be granted his licence.

"That was one of the big things for him today, it was a special day for him," Payne said.

"He knew if he got through today he would get his licence."

Payne, a jockey himself in South Africa before becoming a champion trainer in his homeland, said Schofield would ride three horses for him at Saturday's Newcastle meeting.

They are Hemem, Sir Gwynn and Oenophilia.

"He's got a lovely seat on a horse and is just a natural, well balanced rider," the Rosehill trainer said.

Schofield tips the scales at just 37kg and has been apprenticed to Payne for about six months.

The quietly spoken apprentice said there were few nerves ahead of his first race ride.

"I'm just excited," he said.

"I can't wait."

Schofield was seen on raceday at Rosehill in January when he partnered the Payne-trained stakeswinner Centennial Park in an exhibition gallop.

His father was alongside on stablemate More Than Great.

"That was my first taste of putting on the silks," Schofield said.

"But now it's getting serious."