Ladies in RACING Autumn/Winter 2018 Issue 30

$11.95

Autumn/Winter 2018 Issue #30

CLARE LINDOP Retires

Inside

QUEENSLAND WINTER CARNIVALS 2018

CONTENTS 1 Contents 2 From the Publisher 3 Regular Contributors 4 Ladies in RACING Magazine Letters 6 Clare Lindop’s Retirement The Victorian Wakeful Club 8 Lady of Racing Award

Black Opal Stakes Canberra Centre 59 Fashions on the Field

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It’s Time to Frock up for the Annual Girls Day out at Shoalhaven City Turf Club!

Industry and Government Throw 10 Support Behind Michelle Payne Movie

62 Wendy’s Cups Double 64 Mrs Bowman Has a ‘Tail’ to Tell Suzie Horvath Follows Her Heart into 66 Racing

68 Donna Wears the Pants Gloria Gilchrist – The Thrill of Horse 14 69 A Racetrack Somewhere Racing Tash Marks Her Territory Udyta Clarke - Quirky, Yes, But as Clever 70 18 as They Come 72 Kembla’s Master of Apprentices Jane Ivil is Broadcasting Rochelle Adams - The Darwin Turf Club 22 73 The Thoroughbred 2018 Ambassador Bodelle Francis - Paving the Way for 24 A New Rising Star in Victoria 74 Racing South Australia 26 St Pats Yea Picnic Races Fashion at the Races – Searching for Female Excellence - From Exception to 76

South Australia’s Most Stylish Racegoer 28 the Norm Australian Female Jockey Champions 78 South West TAFE Victoria Helping 2018 30 You Get on Track

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It’s Time to Make New History Tattersalls Tiara Race Day Damien Anthony Rossi - New Post for Treasury Brisbane

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at the Track

Melbourne Office PO Box 451, Chadstone Centre VIC 3148 Telephone: 1300 783 112 Facsimile: 1300 799 332 Email: cm@ladiesinracingmagazine.com.au Publisher Editor PA / Subscriptions Social Media Graphic Designers

Accounts Manager

Cathryn Meredith Ron L. Williams Corinne Randall Lynne Hayes Gumboot Graphics - Mark Westaway Nicki Kapar

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Mark Brassel, Meg Brownlow, Debbie Burt, Lisa Coffey, Brad Gray, Mark Ferguson, Tim Guille, Ray Hickson, Julieanne Horsman, Kylie Johnson, Caitrin Kelly, Keiron Long, Sally Milbourne, Dale Olsson, Caroline Plant, Tai Ryan, Lachlan Sands, Victoria Shaw, Matt Stewart, Alexandra de Vylder CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Bubbles Barbierato Photography, Bradley Photographers, Debbie Burt, Carole Beros, Alan Cole, Cultivate Productions, Cunard Line, Daryl Duckworth Photography, Richard Davey, Gloria Gilchrist, Harness Racing Victoria, Steve Hart, Jayne Ivil, Meaghan Coles Photography, Mike Mills Photography Townsville, Racing Photos, Victoria Shaw, Racing Victoria, Ross Stevenson, Thoroughbred Park, Amanda Wood $11.95

Northam Racing Club Community Racing - Four Generations

Autumn/Winter

2018 Issue #30

FRONT COVER: Clare Lindop

‘Making Allowances’ - 2018 Grand National Steeplechase at Aintree

40 Sofitel Girls Day Out 42 How to Wear a Suit 85 Make Sure Your Operation is Safe Hermione Fitzgerald - Loves Racing and 45 Perri Cutten Autumn Winter Fashion 86 Golf Magic Millions – Sunlight Cruised to 46 Massive Payday for Ladies

87 Unique Australian Artist Ngaere Donald Harrold’s Magic Millions Fashions at the 48 88 Cruise the Seas with Ambassador Travel Track Why People of all Ages Should Learn 90 Glitz & Glamour in the Basalt Area Bridge 50 124th Ergon Energy Warwick Picnic 53 92 Races

Clerk of the Course – No Ordinary Horse 93 54 94 56 Coffs Harbour Cup 2018

58 Le Dain Designs Summer Cup Fashions 96

www.ladiesinracingmagazine.com.au

Brisbane Office PO Box 170, Scarborough QLD 4020

Hattember - A Challenge to Remember Winter Millinery On Our Bookshelf Advertisers Index

Photo courtesy Racing South Australia P CLARE LINDO

Retires

Inside

2018 TER CARNIVALS QUEENSLAND WIN

Ladies in RACING Magazine cannot ensure that advertisements appearing in this magazine comply absolutely with the Trade Practices Act and other legislations. It is the responsibility of the advertiser and/or supplier of the materials and copy to ensure compliance with all legal requirements. Material in Ladies in RACING Magazine is protected under the Commonwealth Copy-right Act 1968. Ladies in RACING Magazine reserves the right to refuse an advertisement without attributing any reason for such refusal.

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No material may be reproduced in part or whole without the written consent from the copyright holders. Ladies in RACING Magazine welcomes submissions. Please retain duplicates of text and illustration materials. Ladies in RACING Magazine does not accept responsibility for damage to, or loss of, material supplied. All original material as to text and/or photography remains the property of Ladies in RACING Magazine.

Contributions, including the contributors name and address, are welcomed by this magazine should be addressed to the Editor, Ladies in RACING Magazine, PO Box 170, Scarborough, QLD 4020.

Please note that the views of the contributors are not necessarily those of Ladies in Ladies in RACING Magazine.

All dates and information, correct at time of printing April 2018.

AUTUMN/WINTER 2018 #30

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Ladies in RACING Magazine

From the Publisher

W

elcome to the Autumn/Winter Issue # 30 of Ladies in RACING Magazine, which is the only National Racing, Fashion and Lifestyle Magazine produced in Australia.

A new chapter of Clare Lindop’s remarkable story beckoned on Tuesday March 6th, when she announced that she intending to retire from race riding, which will become effective at the end of the South Australia Festival of Racing, in May. On International Women’s Day, Thursday March 8th, Amanda Elliott, who last year became the first female Chairman of the Victoria Racing Club, was announced 2018 Winner of the Victorian Wakeful Club’s, Lady of Racing Award. Congratulations to Amanda who is a great Ambassador for females within the industry.

In celebration of thunderous hooves and indelible fashion moments, the 2018 Channel Seven Brisbane Racing Carnival will pay tribute to premium racing, over five spirited race days commencing on May 12th, with the Kirin Doomben 10,000 Day, the Hardy Brothers Doomben Cup Day May 19th, the Treasury Brisbane Ladies Oaks Day May 26th, followed by the UBET Stradbroke Day June 9th and concluding with the Tattersall’s Tiara Race Day June 23rd.

Sunlight cruised past the post for a massive payday to the ladies who received the Magic Millions Women’s Racing Bonus in the $2 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic at the Gold Coast in January.

Sunlight is owned entirely by female connections and secured an additional $325,000 for this group of ladies. If you have ever thought about owning a share in a Thoroughbred, this fantastic initiative by Katie Page-Harvey certainly makes it worth your while. Ladies in RACING Magazine is starting their own Ladies Syndicate so please contact me for further information.

The lucky winners of the Ambassador Travel vouchers are Brenda Cooke, Jennifer O’Neill and Kellie Hamilton from Victoria, and Susan Cameron and Terri Odell from New South Wales. All new and existing two-year subscribers will enter the draw to win one of five limited edition prints of mighty mare WINX. Details to subscribe are on our website www.ladiesinracingmagazine.com.au or see page 79.

In closing, Thoroughbred Racing is the only sport in Australia that both men and women compete on an even playing field.

Enjoy your winter racing.

Cathryn

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Ladies in RACING Magazine

Regular Contributor Profiles SHARON LEE CHAPMAN

ROSS STEVENSON

In 2011 Sharon Lee Chapman shot to world-wide photographic prominence with her headline imagery of Banna Strand leaping into an unsuspecting audience at the Warrnambool Grand Annual.

Receiving the prestigious ‘Quill Award’ for her work that has graced many newspaper and magazine covers including the New York Times, Sharon Lee captures so many emotional and intriguing moments that really tell a story and best summarise for so many the continual allure and romance of racing.

Sharon is the Managing Director of Fast Track Photography

Ross got involved in photography when he started racing horses with his brother. Now he is one of the leading racing photographers in Australia and has had much of his work published in some of the leading horse racing publications in Australia - such as Racetrack, Best Bets, Winning Post and of course the Ladies in RACING Magazine.

Ross is a popular photographer for many Fashion on the Field competitions.

Born into the world of breeding on the family's Eureka Stud, QLD, Jenny has tallied many years in a marketing career for the likes of Gai Waterhouse, NSW Breeders, Coolmore, David Hayes and Adam Sangster.

Based in Melbourne she currently operates for Lindsay Park, Sky Racing and Tattersalls UK and enjoys freelance writing for the thoroughbred industry.

TIM GUILLE

VICTORIA SHAW

LISA COFFEY

Catching the thoroughbred bug from a very young age, Tim Guille has always had a passion for racing. Be it as an spectator, owner, or punter, he is never far away from the racetrack with form guide and binoculars in hand.

His writing has featured in a wide variety of publications in the thoroughbred and sporting industry over the last 7 years. He has always had a passion for people, and this has led him to focussing his writing on sharing the stories of the the people and characters that work tirelessly to make the magic happen in the sport of kings. You can tweet or follow him on twitter @timbguille or his Facebook page Behind the Barrier

As the only woman in Australia to actively broadcast live racing trackside and on TV and radio, Victoria Shaw is the first woman to go beyond the typical roles for women within racing and the media.

With former television and live radio work to her credit, Victoria continually strives to push boundaries for women within Australian racing and around the world as a race caller.

The diversity of her broadcasting opportunities have taken her from ‘off the beaten track’ to working for Arabic royalty and meeting unique and hardworking industry participants that aren't mainstream, but constantly revealing many ‘racing gems’ as a part of her quest.

With her own racing education consultation company Lisa drives major projects supported by State Government and is a Senior Educator for South West TAFE. Lisa designs and delivers innovative training programs to introduce new workers and up skill current workers in the sector with a focus on promoting better mental health in the industry.

With a strong jumps racing and equestrian background from Ireland, Lisa has been an integral part of the growing strength of Jumps Racing in Australia through her position on the Board of the AJRA. With a passion for encouraging women to strive in the industry, Lisa is also a member of the Victorian Wakeful Club.

Follow her on Twitter @lisacoffey01

MICHAEL HOWARD

DALE OLSSON

CAROL BEROS

A journalist since age 17, Michael Howard enjoyed lengthy stints at Victorian country and metropolitan newspapers before joining Harness Racing Victoria as its Media and Communications Co-ordinator.

He’s revelled in the opportunity to not only celebrate the trots’ champions but to dig deep into a code that’s not just a sport, but is an industry, a business, a lifestyle and a passion for its many participants.

Dale has been an avid race goer all her life.

As the former owner of Brisbane’s iconic Millinery Boutique, The Hat Box, Dale forged strong connections with members of the racing and fashion industry.

She is a multiple Fashions on the Field winner and has judged many events throughout Queensland. Over the years Dale has hosted many events and has written for both newspapers and magazines.

Having designed jewellery for the Waterhouse Ladies, designer and owner of Le Dain Designs, Carole is passionate about styling and designing for ladies, especially within the racing world.

Carole has always been involved in writing, photography, fashion and design and currently writes for three publications including Ladies in RACING Magazine.

DAMIEN ANTHONY ROSSI

CAITRIN KELLY

DANNY POWER

Damien Anthony Rossi (aka Mr Hollywood in Oz!) is a Presenter on Channel 7’s popular lifestyle program The Great Day Out and one of Queensland’s leading social and fashion influencers.

DAR is Brisbane Racing Club’s inaugural Fashion Ambassador and serves in an ambassadorial role for many high-profile annual events including the Brisbane Racing Carnival, the Effervescence Champagne Festival and the Noosa Alive!

Festival.

Follow Damien @mrhollywoodinoz

Caitrin has been an active horse woman from the hunting fields of County Meath in Ireland, the racecourses of Ireland, and the UK as an amateur jockey. Caitrin’s journalistic career spans 3 countries; Ireland and London, UK and in Australia from 2012. She is a Paediatric Intensive Care nurse at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, an amateur milliner and also acts as Practice Manager for Racetrack Veterinary Services in Mornington. In 2014/15 Caitrin was Melbourne Racing Club’s ‘Face of Mornington Racecourse’. Follow Caitrin on Twitter and Instagram @mrscaitrinkelly

Danny Power has been a journalist in the racing industry for more than 40 years, including stints at The Sporting Globe, The Herald, Herald Sun, Truth and The Australian. He also has worked as a racing manager for leading trainer Lee Freedman and a bloodstock consultant. Danny has been with The Slattery Media Group for 11 years, during which time his credits include the books The Modern Melbourne Cup (author), Racing In Australia (editor) and The Story of the Melbourne Cup (writer). He is a contributing editor and writer for Inside Racing magazine, and editor of Inside Breeding.

JENNY McALPINE

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Ladies in RACING Magazine

or

Letters

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Dear Cathryn, On behalf of the President and Committee of the Oak Park Race Club Inc. I would like to extend our thanks to Ladies in RACING Magazine for your sponsorship towards our 113th Annual Race Meeting in 2017.

Your generous support is much appreciated. We had a very successful meeting with lots of nominations that stood up which resulted in big fields and very competitive racing. People attended from near and far and they all enjoyed our unique and historical event. We look forward to your continued support in the future.

m in have ever

Yours sincerely Deborah Woodhouse Honorary Secretary Oak Park QLD

Winter adies psley ed us 2016

Dear Cathi, I have just read in your summer edition that I am amongst the winners of a Perri Cutten voucher which is exciting. Thank you so much.

Congratulations on a great magazine – it is a most enjoyable read.

ittee, cked, hbred een’s

With regards, Elizabeth Long

ways

The Quitter When you’re lost in the Wild, and you’re scared as a child, And Death looks you bang in the eye, And you’re sore as a boil, it’s according to Hoyle To cock your revolver and . . . die.

But the Code of a Man says: “Fight all you can,” And self-dissolution is barred.

In hunger and woe, oh, it’s easy to blow . . .

It’s the hell-served-for-breakfast that’s hard.

es in r and aried male

“You’re sick of the game!” Well, now, that’s a shame.

You’re young and you’re brave and you’re bright.

“You’ve had a raw deal!” I know -- but don’t squeal, Buck up, do your damnedest, and fight.

It’s the plugging away that will win you the day, So don’t be a piker, old pard!

Just draw on your grit; it’s so easy to quit: It’s the keeping-your-chin-up that’s hard.

es in chelle n my

cially

adies azine.

It’s easy to cry that you’re beaten -- and die; It’s easy to crawfish and crawl; But to fight and to fight when hope’s out of sight -Why, that’s the best game of them all!

And though you come out of each gruelling bout, All broken and beaten and scarred, Just have one more try -- it’s dead easy to die, It’s the keeping-on-living that’s hard.

men’s ed as

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- Robert William Service

WOMEN RACE FOR

MORE MAGIC

Purchase a yearling at the 2018 Magic Millions Yearling Sale Series and be in the race for the $500,000 Racing Women’s Bonus in 2019 run in conjunction with the $2m Magic Millions 2YO Classic.

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CLARE LINDOP’S Retirement

Clare was the first Australian female jockey to ride in a Melbourne Cup, the first female winner of the Victoria Derby and one of the most accomplished female jockeys of all time.

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new chapter in Clare Lindop’s remarkable story beckoned when she announced her retirement from race riding on March 6th, to be effective after the conclusion of the South Australian Festival of Racing in May. Clare’s announcement coincided with the running of the Adelaide Cup on March 12th, the stage for her first Group 1 success in 2006 on Exalted Time.

Clare said, “I looked forward to riding on Adelaide Cup Day, as it had always been one of my favourite days on South Australia’s racing Calendar. I was also excited to be able to continue riding through to May and enjoy racing for the last time during Adelaide’s Festival of Racing, including hopefully, the Derby, the Oaks and the Goodwood.

“All those who know me will attest to, I possess a fierce competitive streak and an unrelenting desire to succeed; to go out on a high would be the ultimate end to my riding career. I wanted to be able to thank everyone who has helped and supported me throughout my career.

I’ve enjoyed the journey and have been privileged to work with some wonderful colleagues, Trainers, Officials and Administrators, many of whom I consider dear friends.”

Clare began race-riding in 1995 and her 23-year career has included four Group 1 wins, more than 50 black-type race victories, 22 Country and Metropolitan Cups and more than 1,400 winners in total. However, Clare was now thinking about what lies ahead.

“Since marrying Damien Wilton last year, I had been thinking about my future beyond racing and together we decided that now is the right time to announce I am hanging up the saddle. I was excited for my next chapter, whether I remained involved in the racing community, or pursue new challenges in business or parenthood. I’m extremely passionate about racing, females in sport and I hope to become more actively involved with charity work,” she said.

A trailblazer for females in racing, her maiden SA Metropolitan Premiership in 2005 was the first time a female jockey had won the coveted title. Since becoming a senior jockey in 2000, she has also won two State championships and finished in the top-5 on the Metropolitan Premiership table 13 times.

Clare said, “Racing has treated me as an equal from the outset and it has only been recently that I have taken the time to reflect on my role as a ground-breaker for females in the sport, which is testament to an Industry that rewards ability over gender or background. I am extremely proud of my achievements and the fact that I am part of racing history.”

Like any good sporting tale, Clare’s career has not been without its share of adversity. A heavy fall off the Leon McDonald and Andrew Gluyas trained Gelding Gamblin’ Guru in March 2014 nearly spelt the end for Clare, when she broke 15 ribs, her right collarbone and shoulder, and was kept off the track for five months.

“That year was the toughest of my career, so to come back from those injuries and win the 2014-2015 Premiership was amazing. I also had a fabulous year last season, when I finished Runner-up to Jamie Kah, while enjoying being part of the team that contributed to the Training Premiership win for Leon Macdonald and Andrew Gluyas”, Clare said.

TRSA Chair Frances Nelson commended Clare for her ability and impact upon racing, saying, “She leaves behind a legacy that will have a lasting impact on the Industry. Clare is one of the finest jockeys, male or female, to have graced Australian racetracks and we have been privileged to witness her ride for more than two decades. Her fierce competitive desire will be fondly remembered, as her achievements will long be celebrated in the annals of racing. Clare’s contributions to racing have paved the way for increased female engagement in the Industry at all levels. We all wish her well in all her future endeavours.”

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The Victorian Wakeful Club

LADY OF RACING AWARD On International Women’s Day – Thursday March 8th, 2018, Amanda Elliott, who last year became the Victoria Racing Club’s (VRC) first female Chairman, was announced as the 2018 winner of the Victorian Wakeful Club Lady of Racing Award.

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Story by Caitrin Kelly • Images by Racing Victoria

uring a lavish ceremony held at Metropolis on the banks of Melbourne’s Yarra River, hosted by Olympic gold medal-winning swimmer Giaan Rooney, Amanda became the 23rd winner of the coveted award.

The Lady of Racing Award Luncheon had previously been run solely by the Victorian Wakeful Club, but this year it was run in partnership with Racing Victoria. The aim of the Lady of Racing Award is to celebrate ladies who have made an outstanding contribution to the Thoroughbred Racing and Breeding Industries and this year there was a record 20 individual nominations for the Award.

Amanda’s historic appointment at the VRC was recognised by the judging panel, who also on the day awarded the inaugural Spirit of Racing Award to popular Trainer Udyta Clarke and the Victorian Wakeful Club Apprentice Jockey Training Program Scholarship to Stephanie Thornton, a rising star of the riding ranks.

Amanda received her specially-designed Lady of Racing necklace from last year’s winner, Barbara Saunders, with another former recipient of the award, Melbourne Cup-winning jockey Michelle Payne, amongst the recognisable faces in the large crowd.

The judging panel also acknowledged the contribution to the industry of Amanda’s three fellow finalists: Jockey and raceday Presenter, Casey Bruce; Three Bridges Thoroughbreds Business Manager Jackie Noonan, who was nominated for her volunteer work at Mt. Wycheproof & District Racing Club; and Australian Chinese Jockey Club (ACJC) Chairperson, Teresa Poon.

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Amanda was elected to the VRC Committee in 2002, becoming only the second female to join the Committee in 140 years. In 2011, she became the VRC’s Vice Chairman, making her the first female executive office holder at the club, before her ground-breaking appointment as Chairman in 2017. She comes from a family with an extensive history in Thoroughbred racing, Breeding and Administration. Her father, Ian Bayles, was also Vice Chairman of the VRC and a long-standing Committee member.

The Thornton family is also synonymous with Thoroughbred racing, with Stephanie’s father Glenn a Trainer and her brothers, Boris and Damien, both Jockeys. She was presented with her $1,500 Scholarship by the 2016 Lady of Racing, Cheryl McCarthy. In doing so she became the fourth Apprentice to receive the grant after Jessica Eaton (2015), Georgina Cartwright (2016) and last year’s recipient, Chelsea Hall.

Stephanie, recently appointed a Festival of Racing Ambassador, is in her final year of RV’s Apprentice Jockey Training Program. She is currently in a rich vein of form, with 19 city winners moving her to ninth in the 2017/18 Victorian metro jockeys’ premiership.

Udyta, who received the Spirit of Racing Award for her services to the Industry, spoke about the love and dedication she has for the racehorses in her care. Her stable star Rich Charm, whom she bred and part-owns, contested his first Group 1 race when he ran in the Lexus Newmarket Handicap on ‘Super Saturday’ at Flemington. Unfortunately, he didn’t win to bring a fairy-tale end to the story, but he ran a great race and will no doubt be back in the winners stall soon.

Udyta also spoke about the remarkable love and care she bestowed on Heza Dude, whose life she saved and whom she subsequently nurtured after the Foal lost his Mother, making it easy to see just why Udyta was adjudged a worthy winner of the award. For the first few weeks of his life, Udyta fed and cared for Heza Dude around the clock, even sleeping in his stall until he was strong enough to survive on his own. Remarkably, despite the tough start to his life, Heza Dude made his racecourse debut in a Moe maiden two years later and has since won four races and more than $150,000 in prizemoney.

There wasn’t a dry eye in the house as the crowd in attendance were treated to a sneak-peak reading of the script from upcoming movie Ride Like A Girl by Oscar nominated Actress and Director of the film, Rachel Griffiths. The movie tells the story of Michelle Payne’s historic win aboard Prince of Penzance in the 2015 Melbourne Cup. Other notable names at the star-studded ceremony included AFLW player Breann Moody; Giles Thompson, Racing Victoria CEO; and Christine Downing, President of the Victorian Wakeful Club.

The Victorian Wakeful Club encourages the networking and participation of females in the Thoroughbred Racing and Breeding Industry. As well as the Lady of Racing Award, The Victorian Wakeful Club has established Strapper’s Awards at various Metropolitan and Country meetings throughout Victoria to recognise the hard work and dedication of some of the most important and unheralded people in this Industry. The Club also awards an Annual Scholarship to a student at Melbourne Polytechnic and a bi-annual bursary to Marcus Oldham for the Diploma of Equine Management.

top left: Christine Downing, Barbara Saunders, Amanda Elliott and Giles Thompson at the Lady of Racing Award Lunch at Metropolis Events on March 08, 2018. top right: Amanda and host Giaan Rooney above: Amanda and Caroline Ralphsmith, Executive General Manager - Customer Engagement at the Victorian Racing Club For more information about the Victorian Wakeful Club, please visit www.wakeful.com.au, follow the Victorian Wakeful Club on social media to keep up to date with news or contact secretary@wakeful. com.au to become an Associate Member.

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Rachel Griffiths and Michelle Payne

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Industry and Government Throw Support Behind

MICHELLE PAYNE MOVIE

Racing Victoria (RV), the Victorian Government and Tabcorp have announced their official partnership with the Michelle Payne biopic, Ride Like A Girl, which will mark acclaimed actress Rachel Griffiths’ directorial debut.

Story and Images courtesy Racing Victoria

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ichelle and Rachel were joined at the Ballarat Turf Club by Prince of Penzance, the horse Michelle rode at odds of 100/1 to win the 2015 Melbourne Cup, to officially announce the partnership and confirm that filming will commence on 16 April 2018.

Michelle’s home town of Ballarat will play a central role in the production of the movie with confirmation that a five-day shoot will take place from May 7th, 2018, as will her brother, Prince of Penzance’s strapper Stevie Payne, who has been confirmed to play himself in the film.

Joining Rachel and the Payne’s in unveiling the partnership announcement were Richard Keddie, producer of Ride Like A Girl; the Hon. Martin Pakula MP, Minister for Racing; the Hon. Jaala Pulford MP, Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development; Giles Thompson, RV Chief Executive; and David Attenborough, Tabcorp Chief Executive.

Under the partnership, RV, the Victorian Government and Tabcorp will be actively involved in the development and promotion of Ride Like A Girl, with each providing significant support and investment.

The film, which has already secured domestic and international distribution with Embankment, will depict an uplifting tale of Victorian Thoroughbred racing and the diverse range of people working within the sport, culminating in Michelle’s historic victory at Flemington.

Giles Thompson said that RV’s support of the film will be beneficial for all parties, carrying the story of Victorian Thoroughbred racing and a defining moment in its history to a worldwide audience.

“Our vision at Racing Victoria is to achieve Racing for all, and Michelle’s win in Australia’s most iconic horse race was a landmark moment for Lady Jockeys,” Giles said.

“We are delighted to support this film, which will showcase to domestic and international audiences the splendour of Victorian Thoroughbred racing, and the wonderful characters who dedicate their lives to our sport.

“Michelle is a great Ambassador for racing in Victoria, and I have no doubt this film will be a must watch and do justice to her crowning achievement and our sport.”

Giles also noted that a number of Victorian race clubs are providing in-kind support for the movie and paid particular thanks to the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) for the support provided, which has been instrumental in getting the production to this point.

The Victorian Government is also proud to lend its support to Ride Like A Girl, which will showcase the Victorian Film Industry, the natural beauty of Regional Victoria and the State’s elite racing Industry – which is worth an estimated $2.8 billion and supports almost 60,000 jobs – to a global audience.

With filming due to take place in rural locations such as Ballarat, Riddells Creek, Clarkefield and Hanging Rock, Regional Victoria is set to benefit from a share of the film’s projected $14 million injection into the State’s economy.

Investing in International films like Ride Like A Girl, is an important tool in helping to grow Victoria’s Regional Tourism Industry, which is currently worth more than $23 billion to the State’s economy, creates approximately 210,000 local jobs, and attracts in excess of 14 million International and Interstate visitors per year.

Prince of Penzance and strapper Maddie Raymond with Hon. Martin Pakula MP, Minister for Racing and the Hon. Jaala Pulford MP, Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development

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Michelle and Stevie with Giles Thompson and David Attenborough Ride Like A Girl is just one of many upcoming feature films which have received support from the Victorian Government through Film Victoria, showcasing Victoria’s diverse range of talent, locations, facilities and associated screen business services.

Darren Weir Racing

David Attenborough said that Michelle’s inspirational story aligns closely to Tabcorp’s values, and that it was a natural fit to expand his company’s long-standing support of the Victorian Racing Industry.

“We’re delighted to back Ride Like A Girl as a major partner,” David said.

“The TAB helps connect millions of Australians to racing, and many have a great story to tell about backing Michelle Payne and Prince of Penzance in the 2015 Melbourne Cup. Michelle’s story also closely aligns with our commitment to promoting gender diversity and supporting women in racing and business.”

Tabcorp is one of just 120 Australian Companies named an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality.

In addition to the partnership with RV, the Victorian Government and Tabcorp, it has also been announced that Screen Australia has provided script funding to Ride Like A Girl through its Gender Matters policy, an Australian initiative to promote female filmmakers and stories with a female protagonist.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Agriculture and Regional Development, Jaala Pulford: “When it comes to backing this film, it is a no brainer. Michelle Payne broke a glass ceiling and Ride Like A Girl tells that story – it’s about a lady winning at something long dominated by the guys, it’s about family, community and resilience.

“Ride Like A Girl will be a story for the ages, and it will show its global audience the wonder of Western Victoria. We are thrilled to help put Michelle and her regional Victorian story on the big screen.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Racing, Martin Pakula:

Proud to be associated with Ladies in RACING Magazine

Phone (03) 5334 9888 Fax (03) 5334 6408

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“Michelle’s story is truly remarkable. Her history-making win has inspired many Lady Jockeys and young females across the world.

“This exciting film project showcases Michelle’s rise to the top and will highlight Victoria’s outstanding racing industry to millions of viewers.”

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GLORIA GILCHRIST The Thrill Of Horse Racing

Gloria Gilchrist rode as an Amateur in the 1970s. Gloria was one of the lady riders who broke down the prejudices against female Jockeys by displaying above average riding ability and a great capacity to persevere under difficult circumstances.

As told to Keiron Long – Australian Racing Museum • Images by Gloria Gilchrist

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loria’s love of the Sport of Kings and Queens saw her riding in Malaya and Singapore during the 1970’s. On returning to Australia, she continued her association with racing as a track rider and lady rider based in the Sunbury area.

1. Describe your early years before racing. Were there any family racing connections?

I was brought up in a small rural town in Tasmania. When I was eight years old I was ‘sprung’ riding my Mother’s milking cow up the road in a sisal headstall. One of my Father’s mates reported it to him and said, “Time to get that girl a horse and better still, I have an old Shetland pony called Tony and I will drop him off tomorrow.”

Later, I sold Tony for a larger pony and then a horse. It wasn’t long before I was involved with Pony Club, Shows, Hunting and Eventing.

2. How did you become involved in racing?

In May 1972, I was married and went to live in Singapore with my husband John, who had been posted there by a large Company. He had a work Visa, but I did not, so technically I could not work. Not to be daunted, I headed to the Bukit Timah Race track, where both the Singaporean race horse stables and the Bukit Timah Saddle Club horses were housed.

My British Horse Society Instructor qualifications led to a job being offered (unofficially), instructing ex-patriates and local wealthy Singaporeans how to ride. In exchange, I was given two horses fresh out of professional racing, stabling, fodder and a ‘syce’ (groom). These horses were to be exercised and ridden by myself as an amateur at the ProAm Singaporean and Malaysian Race Meetings. Obviously, there was much ‘betting’ happening at the races, so the more horses going around, the better the stakes.

The ProAm racing circuit included Singapore and venues such as Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, Penang and way up near the Thai border at Kedah and then down to Singapore. I just loved the circuit with the Sultans of each Provence taking a keen interest when the races were in their Provence.

The races were both on the flat and over hurdles and my two horses were entered in both. Jumping hurdles was not an issue given my eventing and hunting years. I won the Amateur Hurdle Trophy against the male and other female riders and I had my share of success on the flat as well.

While I was riding in Singapore and Malaysia at the racing meets, I was under the watchful eyes of their Chief Stipendiary Steward, Anthony Gurran. In 1975, when I was about to return to Australia I was advised

by Anthony that some of the lady riders were getting their professional riding permits and that I should apply.

3. What kind of an Apprenticeship did you serve?

When I returned to Australia I contacted the Victoria Racing Club (VRC) and asked what the procedure was to receive a Permit to ride.

At that time, there were no Apprenticeship’s the way there is now. I had a letter of clearance from Anthony Gurran on behalf of the Malayan Racing Association and one from the Malayan Amateur Racing Association indicating my past racing experience.

I was advised by the VRC that my best way to get a permit was to find a Trainer in my area, which was near Sunbury. I was told to do track work and then apply for my barrier trial. So, I commenced working for Mr H. Dyson at Sunbury, riding track work three days a week for no pay, but maybe with a chance to ride in ladies only races at tracks upcountry like Hanging Rock, Tatura, Avoca, St. Arnaud, Woodend and Kyneton. At this time, we were not allowed to ride against the male jockeys, we could only compete against other females.

I eventually did my barrier trial at Kyneton under the watchful eye of the Chief Stipendiary Steward Jack Purtell, and on September 1st, 1975 I was granted my Ladies Rider’s Permit No. 63 for the 1975-1976 Season.

My first official professional ride as a Lady Rider was at St. Arnaud Turf Club on November 29th, 1975 on a horse named Pilgrima. It was quite a coincidence really, as we lady riders of that era were the ‘pilgrims’ paving the way for lady jockeys!

4. Who were some of the greatest influences during your career?

I would have to say Anthony Gurran, as he truly believed in my ability to ride, but unfortunately at that time he stayed in Singapore and I was back in Victoria with no real racing contacts or mentors.

5. What are some of your memories of these days ‘on the road’?

Obviously with so few races for Lady Riders, I didn’t spend a lot of time travelling. Normally your trainer gave you a race ride and you travelled with him or by yourself to the race track.

A losing ride at the time was just $20, and as I mentioned previously, I rode track work three days a week for nothing just to get a ride. It was tough. The December 1975 race meet at Kilmore offered the Lady Riders ‘$300 worth of trophies, mainly clothing’.

6. What were some of the difficulties you faced as a female jockey?

Firstly, we were called Lady Riders, not Jockeys, so that was the first obstacle to be crossed off. A Jockey was a male dominated arena, so there were no change rooms or toilets allocated to Lady Riders in the weigh in and jockey room area. A caravan would be pulled up nearby for the girls to get changed in and we used the communal race track public toilets!

Being male dominated, I also think that there was a belief that females were not strong or as tough or tactical as male riders; Michelle Payne finally dispelling that myth for us.

7. What are some of your best memories as life as a jockey?

My best memories of being a lady rider are still of my Singapore and Malaysian experiences in terms of being in the winner’s circles. My other best memory of life as a jockey is being proud to have been in the first brigade of female riders to take on the racing world to show that we truly can contribute to the racing fraternity.

8. Was there a special bond between the Lady Jockeys of your time?

The Victorian Lady Jockey’s Association had just been formed in those early years and there was a panel of dedicated Lady Riders driving it. I particularly remember the Secretary, Linda Fulton, being a dynamic force. We were desperately trying to be recognised as jockeys, with some of the rights of the male jockeys.

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Some pages from Gloria’s scrapbook.

As there was such a small group of jockeys in the 1970s it was not hard to regularly see the same faces at the small number of race meetings.

I personally didn’t forge any strong bonds at the time as most us were riding track work, ‘chasing a ride’, while still working full time.

been hard to commute to the city for the early morning track work, however maybe I should have. If I had been able to be paid to work for a bigger trainer at say Flemington, strapping and doing track work maybe there would have been more opportunity for better rides.

In current years due to the kindness of racing notables such as Des Gleeson, John Sweeney and Rhonda Comitti, I have been able to catch up with some of the past and present lady riders at racing reunions and race meetings in the various States. I am always incredibly proud of what we early lady riders achieved, but totally in awe of the professionalism and strength of our current lady jockeys.

10. What has life been like for you post riding?

9. What would you change if you could go back in time?

In the 1970s, I was married and living in the country and it would have

Today I still work so that I can follow the wonderful ‘Sport of Kings and Queens’, both Overseas and in Australia. I have been privileged in the past few years to have travelled to Royal Ascot, the iconic Kentucky Derby and of course, we have our wonderful Melbourne Cup. This year I am off to Paris to Long Champs and the Arc. The thrill of horse racing never leaves me.

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Darren Gauci and Udyta Clarke

UDYTA CLARKE

Quirky, yes, but as clever as they come It’s easy to misread the story of Udyta Clarke and her Lexus Newmarket Handicap runner Rich Charm. On the surface, it’s the story of an eccentric 70-year-old lady and a gift horse who popped up in her life to provide racing with one of its cherished feel-good stories.

U

Story by Matt Stewart -Winning Post • Images by Racing Photos

dyta’s endearing quirks, the way she talks so lovingly about her horses as the kids she never had, distracts from her phenomenal knack for turning cheap horses, often patch-up jobs from far bigger Stables, into regular winners.

The quirks are everywhere, not least of all in her often-hilarious postrace interviews, where those clutching the microphone become hapless passengers.

At her property 17km from the Cranbourne, Victoria training track, there are two TVs in the Stables, one at each end. “They love the ABC,” she said of her eight-horse string, “… and the cricket. They don’t like the footy.”

It’s a Shame Billy, one of her many cheapies (he was purchased for $2500 and has won $176,000 in stakes) used to love the old black and white TV. “He hates colour,” said Udyta.

Another of her horses can’t stand mobile phones. “As soon as it starts ringing he tries to knock it out of my hand. They’re so funny, they’re all personalities. At feed time they’re like hungry kids around a table. They are my children,” she reminded me.

Udyta is certain Heza Dude, who has won four races and been placed in 26 of his 39 starts, is not a horse, but a human. “And so handsome,” she said. “He was born dead, I never left his side for a week. Gave him mouth-to-mouth, pumped his heart. I nearly killed myself trying to keep him alive. His Mum died, he did get a surrogate, then she got bitten by a snake and died. He was so tiny, but he made it.”

Udyta seems to regard her horses more as pets, or kids, and might seem more scattered than measured, yet her knack is apparent on the scoreboard

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and in the old farmhouse where three rooms are filled with trophies collected over a decades-long career than began at the Picnics, where she was Champion Trainer for three straight seasons in the mid-1980s.

Udyta said her life is defined by her horses and her love for them and the love affair began when she was about seven. Her father was a Bootmaker and Udyta was an only child and spent most of her childhood in the Western Melbourne suburb of St Albans, which was a paddocky village in the 1950s. Udyta rode her pony Molly, which was kept in a paddock near the milk depot, to Primary School. “There was no power, no TV. Just my pony.”

The Clarkes later bought a small farm at Cranbourne South, where Udyta’s pony would be plonked on a cattle truck with a handful of others to be carted to Pony Club. She worked for five years at a Stud near Pakenham, then worked day and night, first at an office, then night shift at the Heinz factory, and earned $28 per week. “It was bloody tough I can tell you. My life was never smooth sailing,” she said.

She started training picnic horses in the 1970s (“you didn’t even need a proper licence”) and was the dominant picnic trainer in the 1980s before purchasing a second-hand racer called Le Boot for $500.

Le Boot was the first of a string of remarkable professional-circuit success stories, right up to recent horses like Hot Power, who is the most expensive horse Udyta has ever bought. He cost $25,000 and has earned over $230,000.

Le Boot won 10 races, including a handful over the jumps, and was a “naughty horse” unlike Moyston, a John Meagher-trained sprinter bought by her for $4,000, whose bad feet were no obstacle for Udyta.

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Moyston won a handful of races for her. “People would ask me, how did you win races with him after John gave up on him?” I always said, “I don’t know” because I really don’t.”

It was a similar patch-up success with a horse called Mon de Rouge, whose chipped knees didn’t stop him breaking track records at Pakenham and Stony Creek for Udyta.

There were many others before a Filly called Charmly, a world beater, who didn’t quite race to her potential but produced kids who did.

Before Rich Charm came Classic Charm, whose near-glittering career came crashing when he fell in a race at Geelong.

Udyta describes Rich Charm as “my dream horse”. “If he had won the Lexus Newmarket, it would have been my dream come true. He ran a gallant sixth, coming from 12th position at the 400m. I’ve had a pretty tough life. I’ve been to hell and back a few times, but I work bloody hard and if you do that your dreams can come true,” she said.

For all the talk of talking horses hooked on the ABC, and the horse that hates phones, and the other eccentricities of Udyta’s life, there is an incredible professionalism and attention to detail.

She breaks the mould but is not nutty.

Her horses eat breakfast before trackwork. Very few trainers do it that way. “It’s the most important meal of the day. Everyone knows that most horses are locked away at 4pm the day before. Some don’t get back from the track until 10am. They shouldn’t go to work hungry,” she said. Evening and next-day feeds are prepared with precision. All horse gear is scrubbed and disinfected daily. The horses are dry-rugged before leaving the track.

The quirky 70-year-old trainer had refused all Media requests to come visit Rich Charm the week before the Newmarket. “He loves his routine.

No one was going to come down and bother him just to have a chat to me,” she said. “The horse was in perfect condition.” If the homebred star had have won the Newmarket, his stake money would have smashed the $1 million mark and Udyta’s dreams would have certainly come true.

“l see some horses pushed onto trucks still wet from hose-downs they’re in such a rush. I’m never in a rush,” she said. It’s all work, no play, I don’t do anything else. It’s my life. I’m very particular.”

above: Udyta Clarke - Spirit of Racing 2018 Award recipient

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JAYNE IVIL

is Broadcasting the Thoroughbred Jayne’s love of the Thoroughbred has brought her to Melbourne and her easy broadcasting style has captured the hearts of all racegoers.

Story by Alexandra de Vylder • Images from Jayne Ivil

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he is employed by Racing.com as a Mounting Yard Presenter and Race Day Analyst for all metropolitan racecourses, as well as other provincial racetracks. Her keen eye for a Thoroughbred as it parades before a race, who she feels is primed for a good run and maybe a win, has created a band of very loyal followers.

Jayne was born in Palmerston North, New Zealand, but grew up in a little town called Levin which is some one and a half hours’ drive north of Wellington. She was educated at Fairfield Primary School, Levin Intermediate and Horowhenua College in Levin and Massey University in Palmerston North.

Jayne has always loved horses, growing up with ponies on her parents’ farm. She attended an Equestrian Club as a child and afterwards rode hunters for some of her mother Lesley’s close family friends.

Jayne has an older sister Michelle Pratt, who is married with two young boys, Alex five and Ben three and a younger brother Matthew.

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“My family is basically where my interest generated from. I was born into a racing family and immersed in horses from a very young age. I probably resented it in my younger days – until I caught the bug!” Jayne said.

Jayne’s grandfather Garth Ivil won the 1977 New Zealand Trainers Premiership, a rare feat for a Central Districts trainer. Jayne’s father Craig also trained, initially in partnership with her grandfather and then in his own right after his father passed in 1991.

Craig had a very good filly named Lee’s Bid who won the Adrian Knox Stakes, before being placed in the AJC Oaks at Royal Randwick. She was then sold to Australian interests. Lesley was heavily involved with the preparation of yearlings on the farm when Jayne was growing up.

Jayne rode trackwork for her father while at high school, and after graduating spent three months on a pre-training farm in Hokkaido, Japan, before returning home to work for trainer Roger James in Matamata. When studying at Massey University and in her holidays,

Seachange at Hastings

she rode track work for trainer David Haworth. However, it was only in 2006, when she was three years into a Batchelor of Social Work, that a career in racing crossed her mind. Jayne left university that year and began a jockey apprenticeship with Frank Ritchie, trainer of champion racehorse Bonecrusher.

“My apprenticeship was short-lived. Not only was I far too tall (I couldn’t cope with the light weights) but the reality was, that after 12 months of riding, I hadn’t improved enough to suggest I was ever going to be able to make a career out of it.”

During her apprenticeship Jayne became trackwork rider and handler of seven times Group 1 winning mare and twice New Zealand Horse of the Year, Seachange. This mare gave Jayne one of her nine wins from 120 rides, but the fittingly named horse was to have a much bigger impact on Jayne’s career.

“The biggest thing she did for me was really change the course of what I did with my life, the opportunities that I received after her career ended. I owe a lot to her and her connections, Dick Karreman and Rick Williams.”

In 2008 Jayne ended her apprenticeship to travel with Seachange to the Dubai World Cup, Royal Ascot and Newmarket, where she finished fourth in the Group 1 Falmouth Stakes.

“She was probably one of the easiest horses that you could possibly take overseas. She was incredibly professional. Not a real cuddly sort or affectionate mare, but she just knew what her job was and went about her business.”

“The biggest issue we had with her was keeping the weight off her, because she did so well! She just loved to eat, loved to work, loved being a racehorse”, Jayne continued.

As the first New Zealand-trained mare to race in the United Kingdom,

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Seachange received a lot of media attention overseas as well as with the New Zealand press, and Jayne’s media work on tour led to a job at Trackside when she returned to New Zealand.

“I received enormous opportunities behind the camera at Trackside as a Producer and worked in front of the camera during carnival time doing yard analysis and horse-back interviews,” Jayne said.

She had already experienced important aspects of horse racing before her media career began.

“I learnt to love Broadcast Media and working as a Producer in New Zealand, but my first love was for the Thoroughbred. I think they are the most incredible animal – athletic, intelligent and they can be diverse in their talent. I can’t believe that I am paid every week just to watch them in the mounting yard.”

“I feel like I have made the right decision to come to Australia. I know the racing here rivals anywhere in the world and it’s accessible to everyone and celebrated in mainstream media. I work with a fantastic team at Racing.com and have been made to feel incredibly welcome.”

For Jayne, working in the Thoroughbred industry is a lifestyle, and finding balance can be tricky.

“I think I am getting better at making time to do the things that I want to do outside of racing. My family is important to me and I adore my two nephews, Alex and Ben, so now that I am living and working in Melbourne, I try to make sure I find the time to get home at every available opportunity,” Jayne concluded.

Jayne believes you never stop learning with racehorses and credits a lot of people for her development in the Thoroughbred industry. She believes that everyone she has met has played a part in her development, for which she is eternally grateful.

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A NEW RISING STAR in Victoria

Stephanie Thornton first rode on Melbourne Cup Day in 2015 in Hobart and the now 19yo really hasn’t looked back since.

Story by Tim Guille • Images by RV

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hen your Father, Glenn is a Trainer and your two Brothers, Damien and Boris decided to take up race riding, there was every chance she too would become involved in the Industry.

The fourth member of the Thornton Team is her Mother, Wendy, a successful Equestrian.

Stephanie is rapidly approaching 100 career wins, including nearly 20 Metropolitan wins for the 2017/18 Season, it was no wonder the rising star was recently chosen to front the Racing Victoria Festival of Racing Campaign. I had the pleasure of talking with her recently.

Growing up in a family consumed by racing, how involved were you?

“Heavily involved. When I was a quite young, I always wanted to go to the races with Dad to watch. It wouldn’t matter whether he was there all day, or for just one race. I always wanted to go and be a part of it, I really loved it.”

You had a strong focus on Eventing growing up, do you think that time has helped shape your race riding career?

“Without a doubt. Eventing was really where I learnt to ride. It’s how I gained my balance on a horse and I have no doubt that it still helps me to this day. When I first started riding, I was still at School and still Eventing, making life very busy. But that’s when I chose racing over everything else. Hopefully I can go back to Eventing someday.”

Your brothers are also jockeys. Did it feel natural that you would follow in their footsteps?

“Absolutely. For my 14th birthday, Mum and Dad had organised my Stable Hand registration as a present, so I was able to ride at a race course with them straight away, which was a great experience. I loved it straight away.”

Your first race ride was down in Tasmania in November 2015. How was that experience?

“Just fantastic. I was lucky enough that Damien and Boris were both in the same race, so that was very special. I had done a lot trials down in Hobart while working with Scott Brunton, who gave me my first ride on Miss It And A Bit who ran eighth. Scott was very supportive.”

You rode your first Metropolitan winner on Miss It And A Bit in July 2017 at Sandown. That must have given you a great feeling?

“It was a huge thrill. It meant a lot to me and was a big step in my career for sure. I loved that it was on the same horse that I had my first race ride on also and I was happy for Scott.”

You seem to have a real affection with the Moonee Valley track where you have had the most success, including a recent Treble. Why do you think that is?

“I love riding at the track and the way it races. I think patience is a big key on a track like The Valley and how it plays at the time. Of course, you must have some good fortune , but I really enjoy riding there. It helps that I’m getting on the right horses that’s for sure.”

Riding winners is naturally a great experience. How different does it feel riding one for your Dad?

“I love riding winners for Dad. I know how much hard work he puts in, so it’s a great experience. He loves his horses and I was a part of that growing up, so being able to ride for him now regardless makes it even more special.”

Would you say he has been one of the biggest influences on your career to date?

“Definitely. He’s the first one I call if something goes wrong, or if I’ve had some success. He’s been there since day one. He taught me how to ride and how to ride work. He’s the reason I am where I am today. My current Master, Mick Kent, has been tremendous for me also.”

What would you say has been your biggest win to date?

“They have all been pretty great to be honest. I guess it was nice to win an Open Handicap recently on Coldstone at Flemington in February.

Naturally it will be nice to win a Black Type race and my dream would be to win a Cox Plate. I love the Valley and it’s an amazing race.”

How did it feel being selected as one of the faces of Racing Victoria’s Festival of Racing?

“I had never done anything like that before, but it’s been great. I was grateful for the opportunity to be a part of it and be involved in the promotional side of racing. Surprisingly it’s boosted my profile, but at the same time I was still able to receive my rides and do the work. I’ve had great success lately, so hopefully I can just keep that momentum going.”

It must have been a huge honour to win the Apprentice Jockey Training Program Scholarship at the Victorian Wakeful Club Luncheon?

“It was a huge honour. It’s an amazing program run by Racing Victoria so it was fantastic to be awarded this honour. It’s great to see so many female apprentices coming through the program. It’s very exciting” Having been in the Apprentice Program for a few years, are you finding you’re starting to be called upon as a mentor for younger Apprentices?

“To a degree. But we all, myself included, still look up to the Senior Jockeys ourselves for help. If anyone’s there and they need help, I’m more than willing to help out and I enjoy doing it.”

Who are some of the Senior Jockeys you look up to and aspire to ride like the most?

“Nikita Berriman has been a huge support for me and a big influence on my career to date. If there’s one other Jockey who I watch closely, it’s probably Mark Zahra. He rides a really patient race and certainly can get the best out of his mounts.”

Tough one to finish. Who is the best Jockey in your family right now?

“I’m not sure I should answer that! I think Damien and Boris are both very good riders. They both have different styles, but I really couldn’t say who I thinks the better rider out of all of us.”

Story first published in Inside Racing April 2018 Courtesy Slattery Media Group

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St Pats Cup with President Leonard Sheahan, Frank Hargrave AO, winning jockey Caitlin King and a representative of winning trainer Michelle Murray’s stable.

ST PAT’S YEA Picnic Races

The annual Larkfield Pastoral St Pat’s Yea Picnic race meeting in the foothills of the Victorian high country, takes place on the last Sunday of summer. As one of the last picnic cups for the Victorian amateur season, the standard of racing is always highly competitive and the six-race program ensured an afternoon full of excitement in a very relaxed setting.

Story by Victoria Shaw • Images by Alan Cole and Victoria Shaw

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world away from suits and high fashion, the 90-minute drive from Melbourne through wineries, farmland and forested areas delivered racegoers to a delightful country trackside setting, where they could truly relax.

Early victories on the day went to the Peter White-trained Delightful Spirit, ridden by Leigh Taylor and the newly accredited highweight jockey Dylan Dean, aboard the Mick Sell-prepared Robin the Rich who had the big weight of 66 kilos. Two kilos down on the original weight allocation given Dylan’s fast diminishing claim. I had the pleasure to call Dylan’s first race win at an Arabian horse race meeting last year, as well as when his father Colin Dean rode as a jockey nearly 20 years ago at King Island. It has been wonderful to watch two generations enjoying their riding.

The third race sponsored by Webb Pastoral was a little testing from my perspective as the race caller, with just the three runners given scratchings on the day, however the efforts of Trainer/Jockey/Owner Geoff Brunsdon from Benalla in Victorian Kelly country, certainly made up for the pint size field. A 14-length victory over 2100m for Geoff riding his 4-year-old mare Burzali, previously with James Cummings as well as Grahame Begg, who coincidentally trained the Blue Diamond winner at Caulfield the day before.

Having had only eight prior race starts and bred by Sir Patrick Hogan, Geoff had helped the mare regain her race confidence and together they put on a bold display in front of the large crowd, opening up a tear away lead in the home straight. A very warm reception awaited the winning combination, Geoff reciprocating with a very entertaining

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acceptance speech as part of the race’s presentation.

The feature event of the day was the Larkfield Pastoral Yea St Pat’s Cup. With the field featuring two previous Yea St Pat’s Cup winners - Lardner Lou trained by Michelle Murray of Sale and Riley’s Rocket trained by Paul Kramer, I anticipated we would have an exciting finish to the event and did we ever! With the 2016 winner of the Cup, Riley’s Rocket drawn on the inside, next to the 2017 winner Lardner Lou, the battle was on from the moment they jumped. Quickly It Could Be You forged to the lead early with Lardner Lou settling on the pace and Riley’s Rocket content to sit mid field, stalking the leaders all the way.

As the St Pats Cup field turned the corner and headed for home Riley’s Rocket headed for the inside with Lardner Lou matching him stride for stride. Both horses accelerated away from the remainder of the field.

In a head-bobbing conclusion, Lardner Lou just managed to hold off Riley’s Rocket in a thrilling finish to win by a nose.

Earthling, trained by Bob Dwyer at Seymour provided Dani Walker with the first of her double in race five, which was sponsored by Black Range Estate. Dani then completed her double when she flew down the home straight aboard the ever-gutsy Howling Wolf to victory to take race six, carrying the incredible weight of 73 kilos!

First time sponsorship from Larkfield Pastoral of the Yea St. Pat’s Cup was greatly appreciated, as long-standing support to the Yea community and the St Pat’s Race Club over many years has been provided by Frank Hargrave AO. Frank, a former St. Pat’s Race Club President, was delighted to be contributing again with his business

Racegoers at St Pat’s

Geoff Brunsdon

Race 6 winner Howling Wolf with a happy Dani Walker

Top weight Howling Wolf (1) wins with 73 kilos

Lardner Lou wins St Pat’s Cup by a nose from Riley’s Rocket

St Pat’s Fashionable Foals

Larkfield Estate and equally both the Race Club and myself treasure his ongoing interest in the event and race meeting. Some sixteen years ago, Frank and former club Secretary Lorna Slavin, provided me with my first mainland Australian race call opportunity, and I have been broadcasting annually at the Yea St. Pats meeting since.

A prospect that I treasure post many terrifying small aircraft flights to the racetrack at King Island, which was my previous engagement.

Today the Yea St Pat’s race club is more like family to me and given the nature of the day and all those involved at the Club, I am certain that feeling transpired to everyone who attended.

St Pat’s Fashion on the Field

Over many years the St. Pat’s Race Club has had a longstanding association with the community of Yea and the surrounding District.The St. Pat’s Race Club at Yea is a not-for-profit organisation that extends their support to many sporting, social and charitable organisations such as the local Football and Netball clubs, Men’s Shed, Yea Scouts and Cubs, Sacred Heart parish and various other community groups that require financial support to keep servicing their beneficiaries.

A very special thank you to the Yea Race Club, especially president Denis Smith. Denis was instrumental in the success of our race day and his ongoing support to the St Pat Yea Race Day is truly cherished. It is the deeply entrenched sense of community support at Yea with the St Pat’s Race Club that have reached out to many people over several generations. A fraternity that always comes together once a year on their Cup day, with the backbone of their bond lasting well beyond the year ahead, in fact it never leaves you.

Dining room

Ruth Hargrave

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FEMALE EXCELLENCE From Exception to the Norm

International Women’s Day offered an opportunity to stop and savour the fact female participation is so intrinsically interwoven into the trots it can be forgotten how rare that is.

Story by Michael Howard • Images HRV

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here is no need for grandiose statements. The strength and depth of female excellence in harness racing is in the numbers.

Of the 1802 races in the 2017-18 season up to March 8 (International Women’s Day), 1728 featured at least one female driver or trainer.

That equates to 96 per cent of races, and within that almost 81 per cent of races have featured at least one female driver and 83 per cent of races at least one female trainer.

And the winning figures show this is a tale of quantity as well as quality.

Look at trainers’ Victorian wins and ever-prominent is Emma Stewart – the three-time state and metropolitan trainer of the year who looks set to add fourth consecutive crowns – and she is joined by Kerryn Manning, Marg Lee and Laura Crossland in the state’s top nine.

In fact, as of International Women’s Day, nine of Victoria’s top 30 and 14 of its top 40 most winning trainers this season were women. And in metropolitan racing, both Stewart and Manning feature in the top four for wins and there were 10 female trainers in the top 30.

Among driving ranks, 12 women feature among the state’s top 50 for wins and nine in the top 30 at metropolitan level.

And punters take note, had you placed a single dollar on Ellen Tormey winning each of her 188 starts you’d have $274 in your pocket. A dollar on Sarah Rushbrook winning each of her 31 starts would have you $112.30 ahead.

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And, one last one, while Mark Purdon (43.94) sits atop the strike rate leaderboard for wins-per-start since January 1 2013, places three (Haley Toulmin 32.73), four (Danielle Hill 31.58), five (Kate Gath 24.91) and six (Amanda Turnbull 23.98) are occupied by women.

It’s something worth celebrating, partly because it wasn’t always the way.

Maree Caldow, a trainer of more than 800 winners, “grew up in harness racing” and recalled a different landscape to that enjoyed today.

“I remember as a young girl some tracks didn’t have a women’s dressing room and so you’d be changing in the toilets,” Caldow said. “There would have only been a handful of female drives when I was a teenager in the early ‘90s.

“Then we had trail blazers like Debbie Quinlan, Rita Burnett and Roma Pocock. It was really inspiring to see that they could go out on the track against the boys and were really good.

“And we had women trainers like Faye McEwan and Jayne Davies who showed that women could be just as good as men when it came to training.”

They opened doors and the female participants burst through.

“Now we have so many top women, like Kerryn Manning and Kate Gath and Jodi Quinlan, who the young girls who are coming through can look up to, as well as the likes of Emma Stewart, who is doing a fantastic job,” Caldow said.

Ultimate acceptance has come from the truth that elite female performances no longer surprise as well as the fact the likes of the Victorian Reinswomen’s Association is now defunct, with the trots requiring only the unified Victorian Trainers’ and Drivers’ Association.

“Back years ago it was a big deal if a woman won a race, now it is spoken about in the same breath as when men win, female participants are held in the same respect.”

opposite page: Team Teal ambassadors and trots drivers Kerryn Manning, Kate Gath and Jodi Quinlan with Dianne Shelly. Team Teal raised almost $200,000 for the Women’s Cancer Foundation. above: The Team Teal Women Drivers Invitational at Echuca. Picture: Nikkita Ross.

everything #TheTrots

thetrots.com.au AUTUMN/WINTER 2018 #30

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SOUTH WEST TAFE (Victoria) Helping You Get on Track Aspiring track riders and stable hands can now get the skills they need to pursue their dreams.

Story by Lisa Coffey • Image by Sharon Lee Chapman

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acing careers courses have returned to South West TAFE. Supported

by State Government and in partnership with the Camperdown Turf Club and Terang and District Racing Club, numerous programs in equine and racing skills will be delivered starting with Certificate II in Racing (Stable Hand) and Certificate III in Racing (Track Rider) qualifications. These programs will have a major focus on practical hands on training to ensure students have strong skills and are job ready.

The courses are being offered at the recently reopened Glenormiston College and will be expanded to cover numerous other racecourse and training complex locations throughout the state later in the year. They are delivered by experienced racing industry personnel who have the skills and knowledge to pass on and are passionate about developing a safe and skilled racing workforce.

There has been great excitement about the reintroduction of these racing courses, particularly track riding, as this continues to be a major skills shortage in our industry. Although the focus will be on practical riding and stable management training, students will also learn skills that will benefit them to branch off into another area, such as administration or bloodstock. This creates more job opportunities and will be a tremendous

8.00AM TO MIDDAY: SUNDAY WWW.RSN.NET.AU

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benefit to Trainers, Owners and the general racing industry.

The Track Rider qualification is aimed at people with existing riding skills, who want to progress to the next level, including skills such as gallop work, corrective techniques for difficult horses and jumping out of barriers. It will be delivered over 12-24 months, including four one-week intensive workshops each year. Depending on riding skill development, this qualification can be completed in a shorter time frame. This qualification also provides a pathway for further study as an Apprentice Jockey with the Certificate III in Racing (Track Rider) now being a pre-requisite for a Victorian apprenticeship.

For those with little or no horse handling experience, or those who are required to do stable hand Mandatory Training the Certificate II in Racing (Stable Hand) is an ideal starting point. Run over 12 months with regular practical workshops, this course is an ideal starting point for those seeking employment.

For more information on our courses contact Lisa Coffey – Senior Educator Racing and Equine Programs 0400 519 483 or check out our website https://swtafe.edu.au and search Racing

Photo: George Fragopoulos

LADIES W E D N E S D AY 1 8 T H J U LY 2 0 1 8 Schweppes Pavilion (air-conditioned) Members $320 Non Members $350 Gate and Schweppes Pavilion access Reser ved seating, tables of ten 3 course luncheon darwinturfclub.org.au •

B e v e r a g e p a c k a g e i n c l u d i n g Ve u v e champagne from 11.30am – 5.30pm Cash bar for spirits Race book Betting facilities

dtc@darwinturfclub.org.au • (08) 8923 4222 AUTUMN/WINTER 2018 #30

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It’s time to

MAKE NEW HISTORY A Gallop To Remember: 2018 Channel Seven Brisbane Racing Carnival Launches With Tribute To History of Racing

I

n celebration of thunderous hooves and indelible fashion moments, the 2018 Channel Seven Brisbane Racing Carnival will pay tribute to premium racing past and present across four spirited race days, commencing May 12. From old-time trademarks to Rough Habit bursting onto the scene, the Carnival will salute over 150-years of unforgettable trackside wins and fashion trends and make new history with a spectacular line-up of Carnival events.

Brisbane Racing Club General Manager of Sales and Marketing Katie Churchill says ears are up and bets are on for an extraordinary gazette of race day experiences. “This year’s Carnival is all about looking back at racing heritage through time and bringing to life moments of excitement, suspense and fashion,” Ms Churchill said.

“Over the years, we’ve seen the finest thoroughbreds take to the track

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and fashion styles evolve with every meet. It’s these stories that have made the Winter Carnival the icon it is today and we’re excited to take our patrons and new spectators on a journey through time.”

Expecting to draw in a crowd of over 40,000, the Carnival, comprising of seven Group 1 races over four big days, promises a zinger of unforgettable style and stallions. There will be close to $9 million in prize money on offer, ensuring a true display of racing of the highest quality. Renowned trainers, jockeys and horses from Sydney and Melbourne will be flying in, along with local leading jockeys Jim Byrne and Jeff Lloyd well and truly in contention.

Beginning the grand contest is the KIRIN Doomben 10,000 Day on May 12, one of Australia’s best weight-for-age races and the perfect programme for hotshot punters and spiffy racegoers ready to don

their favourite vintage number. Already this race has earned inclusion in the top 100 races in the world and the standard of likely runners this year will cement the 10,000 in that exalted position. Last year’s winner, Redzel is returning to chase back-to-back 10,000 victories.

His performances following his Group 1 breakthrough at Doomben deservedly placed him as the number 1 sprinter in Australia.

Running second is the Hardy Brothers Doomben Cup Day on May 19, bringing a magical flair to the Carnival and an action-packed ticket on the track with the Group 1 Hardy Brothers Doomben Cup. Lauded for legendary styles, the Treasury Brisbane Ladies Oaks Day on May 26 will be a premier event hosting Best Dressed titles for the prim and proper and two Group 1 races, which will see gallant Randwick Oaks runner-up, Hiyaam line up for victory.

The much-anticipated UBET Stradbroke Day on June 9 will conclude the Carnival on a winning high, glittering with tradition and the glory of an unrivalled programme weighted with over $3.8 million in prize money. Stradbroke Day brings about an exhilaration like no other. It is Queensland’s most famous race day, hosting horses from across the country,” Ms Churchill said. While world-class racing is, and will

always be at the heart of the Brisbane Racing Carnival, there are some new venues and experiences this year to add to the excitement for racegoers.

The brand new KIRIN Birdcage at Doomben will see a luxurious and elegant Japanese inspired two-storey function space come to life.

For the first time, the team from Brisbane’s premier Asian fusion restaurant, Madame Wu, will cater for guests who have secured an exclusive ticket to this event. “From dumplings to duck, Executive Chef, Brendon Barker has developed a delicious menu incorporating the best home-grown Queensland produce,” Ms Churchill said.

All the additional excitement offered off the track will continue in 2018, including The Village precinct, Fashions on the Field, Vintage Rose and Chandon pop up bars, restaurant cuisine, David Jones Queens Plaza pamper lounge and live entertainment.

Fashions on the Field is one of the most highly rated elements of the racing season, which has seen styles evolve and cement over time. This year’s show piece events will see Channel 7 presenters Sammie O’Brien and Liz Cantor attend as well as former Miss World Australia Tess Alexander and TV presenter Courtney Thorpe.

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Australian singer-songwriter, Shannon Noll and Brisbane based band, Sheppard will feature as headline acts at Hardy Brothers Doomben Cup Day and Treasury Brisbane Ladies Oaks Day, respectively.

The Carnival will also see former Australian rugby league footballer Beau Ryan, Home and Away star Sam Frost and fashion icon Steph Claire Smith fly in to join in on the excitement. Along with renowned trainers, Chris Waller, Gai Waterhouse, Peter and Paul Snowden, James Cummings, Darren Weir, Ciaron Maher and many more.

Two other events in the 2018 Carnival programme are the Maker’s Mark Carnival Ball which will launch the glitz and glamour of the Carnival on April 28, and the Paspaley Pearls Carnival High Tea – a fashion focal point of the Carnival which falls on May 25.

Signature Floral: Salmon Rose

Treasury Brisbane Ladies Oaks Day Saturday, 26 May 2018 This traditional race day is headlined by the $500,000 Group 1 Treasury Brisbane Queensland Oaks for 3YO fillies over 2400m. The day also features another incredible Group 1 race, the $700,000 Group 1 Kingsford-Smith Cup. FASHION THEME – Feminine and Floral

There is certainly something for everyone at the 2018 Channel Seven Brisbane Racing Carnival. For more information or to book your tickets visit www.brc.com.au/carnival

Florals and lace typify the ladylike glamour and grace of the day with men and women both opting for treasured classics. It’s all about the soft colour palettes, floral prints and intricate detail for ladies day.

KIRIN Doomben 10,000 Day

Signature Floral: White Rose

Saturday 12 May 2018 This is the start of the Carnival thoroughbred racing action, with the feature event the $700,000 Group 1 KIRIN Doomben 10,000. One of Australia’s best weight-for-age races at a distance of 1200m – or six furlongs, as was the measure back in 1933 when the race was initiated. The sprint takes its name from when the prizemoney was increased to £10,000.

FASHION THEME – Bold Colour The first raceday of our Carnival is going to emit fabulous colour into the crowds, mirroring the excitement of the occasion with rich winter tones and bright block colours in creative combinations.

Signature Floral: Yellow Rose

Hardy Brothers Doomben Cup Day Saturday, 19 May 2018 The Carnival action continues at Doomben with another Group 1 event leading the card, the $650,000 Hardy Brothers Doomben Cup, a weightfor-age over 2000m.

FASHION THEME – Fashion Forward

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It’s all about pushing boundaries on this occasion. Take a chance to explore the latest looks and embrace the seasonal trends.

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UBET Stradbroke Day Saturday, 9 June 2018 The spectacular finale to the 2018 Channel Seven Brisbane Racing Carnival packs a punch, with three Group 1 and three Group 2 races.

Headlining the elite Group 1 clutch is the coveted $1.5 million UBET Stradbroke handicap sprint over 1350m. The other two Group 1 stars are the $600,000 Channel Seven Queensland Derby for 3YOs over 2200m and the $600,000 J.J. Atkins for 2YOs over 1600m.

FASHION THEME – Black & White with a Touch of Red A day of ultimate glamour and a classic dress code. Monochromatic ensembles with dramatic red accessories or headwear make a timeless combination.

Signature Floral: Red Rose For further information on BRC Ambassador Raceday and Raceday special guests and entertainment, plus all social and track events visit www.brc.com.au/brisbane-racing-carnival We are going to have a ball at the 2018 Channel Seven Brisbane Racing Carnival.

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F

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HION S A

TAT TERSALL’S CLUB

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N

Tattersall’s

TIARA RACE DAY Tattersall’s Tiara Race Day will be held on Saturday 23 June as part of the 2018 Winter Racing Carnival.

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he Tattersall’s Tiara Race Day is the 153rd anniversary of the first Tattersall’s Cup, which was run on 16 August 1865. The Group Three Lazy Yak Tattersall’s Cup is sure to provide edge of your seat viewing! Three Group races, two listed races, and a plethora of other exciting races will keep you glued to the track all day. Tattersall’s Racing Club will also be supporting Legacy, with a family fun area which will include kids entertainment, Army vehicles to view among other activities in addition to the action traSckside.

Winter racing fashion will be at its peak as the Tattersall’s Club Wintergarden Fashions on the Field returns with a new judging panel, a new precinct at the racecourse, and exciting prizes. Details available on the Tattersall’s Club website.

LD

WINTERGARDEN

T H E FIE

TATTERSALL’S

TIARA RACE DAY SAT U RDAY 2 3 JU NE 2018 DO OMBEN RACECOUR S E WIN AMAZING PRIZES WINNING MALE & FEMALE RUNNER UP MALE & FEMALE REGISTRATION FROM 10.30AM COMPETITION FROM 1.00PM

Exciting entertainment will be present on the main stage throughout the day; you’ll be dancing the day away in the glorious Winter sun trackside.

For those that prefer something more intimate Tattersall’s Racing Club has only a few suites still available. Contact racing@tattersallsclub.com or visit the website for more information.

Gates open at 10.30am. General admission tickets can be bought online for $20 or at the gate for $25 with children and pensioners free. Members’ Stand tickets can also be purchased online for $40 per person, and $50 at the gate.

Don’t miss out on Brisbane’s premier Race Day of 2018, the Tattersall’s Tiara Race Day.

tattersallsracingclub

Visit www.tattersallsclub.com.au/race-club for more information or like our Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/TattersallsRacingClub or follow our Instagram Page @TattersallsRacingClub.

TattersallsRacingClub

For more information, visit tattersallsclub.com.au/race-club

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DAMIEN ANTHONY ROSSI New Post for Treasury Brisbane

Treasury Brisbane announces Damien Anthony Rossi as The Star Entertainment Group’s first-ever Brisbane Ambassador

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he Star Entertainment Group will proudly partner with The Sunday Mail’s Social Editor and Channel 7 The Great Day Out presenter Damien Anthony Rossi as their inaugural Ambassador for Treasury Brisbane and its exciting growing portfolio of events.

Known as Mr Hollywood in Oz, the charismatic media personality has show business in his blood. He was raised in a showbiz family in Tinseltown before moving to Brisbane in the early 1990s as a film and television Casting Director and establishing Rossi Casting Group.

The ‘Socials King of Queensland’ is the first-ever Brisbane Ambassador for The Star Entertainment Group, owners and operators of Treasury Brisbane, The Star Gold Coast and The Star Sydney. He joins an elite group of celebrities including Richard Wilkins, Daniel MacPherson, Grace Huang, Jennifer Hawkins and Ian Thorpe, who have previously been The Star Sydney ambassadors.

As the resident ‘entertainment and events guru’ on Channel 7’s The Great Day Out, Mr Rossi reports on all things entertainment in South East Queensland and he is thrilled to share more of his events passion as Treasury Brisbane’s first Ambassador.

Treasury Brisbane Chief Operating Officer Kelvin Dodt said they were thrilled to have Mr Rossi on board.

“Damien is a beloved Brisbane personality who is strongly aligned with the latest events, premium brands and personalities of our great city.

Damien’s ‘playfully glamorous’ personal brand, his acute social scene knowledge and infectious sense of fun make him the perfect fit for Treasury Brisbane.”

“In his role Damien will be an Ambassador for Treasury Brisbane’s growing portfolio of events, which includes the monthly Art of the Palate art series dinners, Cheese & Wine events and selected events across the year.

“We will work closely with Damien from April to ensure the most thrilling guest experiences are delivered on our property in ways that truly reflect the local spirit of our city and support our vision of becoming Australia’s leading integrated resort company.”

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“This role is so exciting on both a professional and personal level,” Mr Rossi said. “Treasury Brisbane is one my favourite venues and I’ve had more good times within its historic walls than I can remember. I am beyond excited and extremely honoured to represent such an iconic brand,” he said.

ABOUT TREASURY BRISBANE Treasury Brisbane is part of The Star Entertainment Group, a leading owner and operator of integrated resorts and casinos in Australia. The Group also operates The Star Gold Coast, The Star Sydney and manages the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on behalf of the Queensland Government.

In Queensland, Treasury Brisbane captures the quintessential spirit of the region and has broad appeal to local and international visitors.

This is achieved by continuing the development of new and existing relationships, leveraging local knowledge and insights and enhanced by international best practice expertise.

DISCOVER THE CRUISING WORLD

AMBASSADOR TRAVEL Join us aboard our exclusive cruise group sailings in

2019

Ambassador Travel, Australia’s leading racing tour specialist is now one of Australia’s leading cruise travel agents, specialising in the very best cruise lines.

Our group sailings have been so popular, we are offering more than ever in 2019.

Whether you are travelling by yourself, as a couple or a family, you will be sure to enjoy the company of your fellow group members.

In 2019/20, we offer sailings aboard all three Cunard Queens from short breaks close to home to grand voyages further afield.

Sydney to Happy Valley aboard Queen Victoria

Christmas with The Queen

Departing Sydney 28 February and Brisbane 1 March 2019 Sailing to Airlie Beach, Darwin, Bali and Vietnam.

Let Queen Elizabeth’s crew take care of the cooking and decorations.

Overnight onboard in Hong Kong, then 3 more nights at one of Hong Kong’s finest hotels and a night of racing at Happy Valley.

Highlights include New Years Eve on Auckland Harbour and a look at New Zealand’s natural wonders including magnificent Milford Sound.

Departing Melbourne in December 2019

Or join us on a short break aboard Queen Elizabeth Southern Australia Short Break • Departing February 2019 Sydney to Hobart return • Departing March 2019

Plus: Queen Mary 2 returns to Australia for her traditional voyage across The Bight Sydney to Fremantle • Departing March 2020

For all cruises worldwide and our racing tours, call us on 1800 777 989 or 07 3229 6555

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SOFITEL

Girls Day Out Girls Day Out is one of the most popular race days on the Brisbane Racing Club’s calendar, but on the February 24th this year, the only Fillies to be seen were drinking champagne in one of the lavish marquees or entering the Fashions on the Field.

Story by Dale Olsson • Images by Ross Stevenson

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ue to heavy rain overnight and the day before, the track was declared unsafe for racing, however Sofitel Girls Day Out proceeded as a Phantom Meeting, with all entertainment and functions going ahead as usual. And there certainly was a great deal to entertain the mainly young crowd of party goers. On the main stage, entertainers Wild Boys Afloat performed for the delight of the ladies and the fabulous Drag Queens strutted their stuff for the enjoyment of all.

In between the live acts, DJs spun some fierce tunes. Dotted around the track were free pamper stations for the ladies to touch up their makeup, as well as Booths as diverse as offering Tarot Readings and Henna Tattoos. In the glamorous marquees guests were treated to delectable cuisine and French champagne served by topless waiters.

For many though, the main event was the Fashions on the Field sponsored by Dress Hire AU. In spite of the inclement weather, the calibre of the fashion showcased was of an excellent standard indeed and the number of entrants high. The Judges on the day certainly had their work cut out for them.

They included Ellie Dunstan, Director of Dress Hire AU, Kayla Boyd, Brisbane Racing Club Ambassador, Brooke Iseppi, Instagram Blogger and Pam Cameron, Brisbane Racing Club Co-Chair. While there were so many beautiful styles in glorious colours, florals won out as the favourite on the day with standout winner Gracyn Marsterson, exquisite in red and pink and accessorised with a hot pink platter hat trimmed with red blooms, red suede fringed sandals and a fashion forward circular pink bag.

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Runner-up Krystle Kirk also favoured floral in tones of cream and peach with neutral accessories and an exquisite headpiece of gold orchids designed by With Grace Millinery. Both young women epitomised the best of elegant Summer racing fashion.

For the first time, Brisbane Racing Club introduced a new category, Best Dressed Girl Squad. The winning group members took colour to a new level with all four donning various hues of pink and yellow.

Individually they looked good, but together they looked great! Prizes included Dress Hire AU vouchers, accommodation at Sofitel Brisbane Central, treatments at Stephanie’s Luxury Spas and vouchers for Fiori Institute of Skin and Body.

While the day without racing was geared towards enjoyment, it did have an altruistic side. Sofitel Girls Day Out 2018 benefitted the Cherish Women’s Cancer Foundation with $5 from every general admission ticket sold being donated to the Foundation. The final tally came to $11,250, a not insignificant sum, which will go towards raising much needed public awareness and vital funding for worldleading gynaecological cancer research being conducted in Australia.

The Foundation also held a 50-50 charity raffle which garnered them another $3,290 with the same amount going to lucky winner Kylie Ferrier.

Thank you to everyone who braved the elements, for taking the time to dress in their finest and arrive at Doomben Racecourse ready for a great day out. I don’t think anyone was disappointed. See you all here next year.

opposite: Runner-up Kristle Kirk clockwise above: Drag Queens; Winner Gracyn Marsterson; Anna Lukyanova; Dale Olsson

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www.firstclassfleet.com.au AUTUMN/WINTER 2018 #30

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Want to Look your Most Stylish?

INVEST IN A GREAT SUIT Dressing for the races is just as important for the men as it is for the ladies and as mens’ suits are such an integral part of their clothing, I am often asked, “What makes a suit great?”

Story by Mark Ferguson

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here are five integral elements that create the aesthetic of a suit, being colour, fit, fabric, construction and style. People often state that fit is the most important, but I would like to disagree as I believe that colour is the most important element. A ‘good’ fitting suit in the right colours for your complexion, eye and hair colour is much better than a perfect fitting suit in the wrong colours. The wrong colours can make you look tired and add years to your appearance.

The correct colour helps you look younger and happier and will work well with your eye, hair and skin colour to light and brighten up your face. Remembering the objective of any clothing you wear is to direct the attention to your face.

The fit is only one part that determines how you feel in the suit. If your suit does not make you feel a million dollars every time you wear it, it is not doing its job. The most important part of the jacket is the shoulders. Too often gentlemen either wear a jacket with shoulders too wide or too narrow. Too wide, can make your head seem small and adds 5-10kgs to your frame, while too small just looks ill-fitting and tight. It is all about the balance and the correct shoulder creates balance.

The next most important element is the first button position. Correctly positioned, the first button can show the illusion of a loss of 5kgs. If the button is too low, it makes your body look long. If positioned too high, this makes your body look shorter. The main objective of any jacket is to create the ‘V’, Wider at the shoulder and smaller at the

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waist. The ideal fit, is fitted but comfortable enough to allow some movement.

The fabric quality plays a vital role in the performance of a great suit.

Most of the high-quality wools are made from Australian wool. Some of the world’s best fabric mills to consider is Zegna, Dormeuil and Cerruti. The difference between these mills and others, is the quality of their wool. These mills go to great lengths to ensure they produce a very high-quality wool. For example, Cerruti cover their sheep with coats to protect their wool from weather extremes.

Fabric weight is the next consideration and for the Queensland climate an 8-ounce wool is the perfect weight. For the heavier set man, a 9- ounce and above will have a better fall and drape well on your body shape.

The hidden structure of your suit is also very important. The only option to consider is a full/floating canvas, stay away from fused or glued. A properly constructed full-canvassed suit jacket means the best of the best when it comes to construction quality. A fullcanvassed suit jacket is one that is constructed with canvas fabric spanning the entire inside front panels and lapels of the jacket. As a middle structural layer, the canvas is hand stitched to the fabric rather loosely (i.e., a “floating” canvas), so the garment can move with you.

What results is a suit that drapes much more naturally, conforms to the body and looks much better. Full-canvassed jackets are the most labour and time intensive, require a higher level of skill to make, and

thus, tend to be pricier. In return for the premium paid, you get a suit that not only molds to your body but will last the longest.

The Style of your suit is important but realistically it should be your last consideration.

Enduring style is always, a classic two button, notch lapel with side vents. The current trends follow a 1920’s theme, with wide peak lapels, high waisted pleated trousers and a fuller cut.

One of the signs of a bespoke suit is the working buttons on the sleeve along with hand stitching on the lapel and pockets. While it may cost more initially it will last you years longer and won’t date as quickly.

Are you ready to look and feel great? Book an appointment now to get your perfect fit, consultations are free. Meet our highly trained team of experienced clothiers for an amazing experience. If your suit does not make you feel like a million dollars it is time for a new suit.

Publishers Note: For further information visit www.wilvalor.com.au and see some amazing videos on how your clothing will be constructed or Contact Mark Ferguson at Wil Valor on 1300 309 272.

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MAGIC MILLIONS

Sunlight Cruised to Massive Payday for Ladies Brilliant filly Sunlight (Zoustar-Solar Charged) overcame some early interference to post a dazzling win for Tony McEvoy and Luke Currie in the $2 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic (1200m) at the Gold Coast, in January.

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hree of the favoured runners – Sunlight and undefeated colts Ef Troop and Jonker - were involved in the incident about 200m after the start but it was the Victorian filly the stood up best, powering away to score by two lengths over Stuart Kendrick’s 100-1 outsider Fullasaboot (Sepoy-Fullazz).

Tony McEvoy said the decision to campaign Sunlight in Queensland – the filly won two races on the Gold Coast after a debut defeat at Flemington in November – was the hallmark of Saturday’s victory.

The veteran horseman, who combined with Aquis Farm and Bluesky Bloodstock to purchase Sunlight for $300,000 at last year’s Magic Millions Gold Coast Yearling Sale, parted with $600,000 to secure her full sister at the sale on Friday.

“It’s a big thrill and it’s brilliant for our brand, what a great filly,” Tony said.

“The key was getting her here when we did, she’s been able to acclimatise and handle the heat really well. Having the preparation where she ran up here last week, when the high pressure was on today she lifted late.”

The win was bolstered by the fact Sunlight is owned entirely by female connections, who secured an additional $325,000 as part of the Magic Millions’ Racing Women promotion.

It was the third time the winner of the 2YO Classic picked up the Racing Women bonus with this year’s $1.525 million winners’ cheque the biggest in the 32 year history of the Magic Million 2YO Classic.

The victory gave Luke another feature scalp for Tony – the pair boasts a 15% winning strike rate over the past two racing seasons

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– and the Group 1-winning jockey again praised the stable’s preparation of the filly.

“She came here with the weight of expectation today and she’s proved all of her fans right,” Luke said.

“She’s been expertly trained by Tony to bring her up here early and give her those couple of runs.

“I learned a lot getting beat on her in her first start, probably more than what I have in her past two wins.

“I rode her down the straight and held her up a bit and I just think she’s too brilliant for that and she’s proven that in her last couple.”

Jonker’s race was all but over after Hugh Bowman was forced to severely check the colt to avoid running into the inside rail, with the colt finishing a distant last while Ef Troop led into the straight but was a spent force at the 200m, tiring to finish fourth, three lengths adrift of Sunlight.

2018 Magic Millions 2YO Classic 1st Sunlight (position past the post: 1st). $325,000 Bonus + $1,200,000 prizemoney 2nd Secret Lady (position past the post: 5th). $100,000 Bonus + $50,000 prizemoney 3rd Meryl (position past the post: 12th). $50,000 Bonus + $10,000 prizemoney 4th Witherspoon (position past the post: 13th). $25,000 Bonus + $10,000 prizemoney

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HARROLDS MAGIC MILLIONS Fashions at t he t rack AQUIS PARK GOLD COAST TURF CLUB • SATURDAY JANUARY 13, 2018

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16 1. Yvette Hardy, Millicent van der Velde, Mary Poulakis (Harrolds) & Anna Lukyanova 2. Angela McCormick 3. Leigh Quinlan 4. Maree Horseman 5. Brittany Baldwin 6. Kahila Pepper 7. The ladies excel!

8. Berandette House 9. Kerrie Carucci & Carle Rutledge

10. Renee Marsterson & Gracyn Dee Lanie 11. Maree Horesman 12. Maria Stack & Carmel Butler 13. Liz Cantor 14. Milano Imai 15. Vivana Croker & Deb Parish 16. Angela McCormick & Tatiana Hoffman 17. Lindsay Ridings & Millicent van der Velde

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Images by Ross Stevenson

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Tanya Murphy, David Lewis, Roslyn Duncan, Peter Murphy, Milly Baker-Meyers and Lachlan Sands at the Oak Park Ball

Glitz & Glamour shone in the Basalt Area in

NORTH-WESTERN QUEENSLAND It was a sea of purple under clear blue skies at the Oak Park Races last year. Despite unseasonably warm conditions, more than a thousand punters made the five-hour journey west of Townsville to enjoy a week of quality racing, social events and high fashion.

Story by Lachlan Sands • Images by Mike Mills Photography Townsville

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n Thursday evening, 6th July at the Westpac Agribusiness Ball, Milly Bakker-Meyers was a well-deserved winner, when she was judged Belle of the Ball. Milly was to have more success again on Friday when she shared the Best Dressed Couple. Both of Milly’s outfits were designed and made by her in their entirety.

Friday showcased the country casual dress code with a blossoming of floral prints, while denim was a recurring theme among the winners for both the ladies and gentlemen. Another of the well-deserved winners was long-time attendee Kath McDonald, who was to be the runner-up in the Most Elegant Lady category on Saturday. Her outfit included a pair of gloves crocheted by her Godmother in 1978 and her Mother’s 70-year-old hat..

On the Saturday, most attendees were adorned in purple and there was fierce competition in the Fashions on the Field events, sponsored by local Cairns boutique, FAmazing Beauty & Fashion.

6.00 TO 8.30AM: MON TO FRI WWW.RSN.NET.AU

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The competition off the track was more than matched by the one on it. Nearly all races were contested by a full field and one race had to be divided into two to accommodate the large number of acceptors.

All eyes were on the penultimate race on Saturday, when Standford emerged with a thrilling victory to claim the coveted Lyndhurst Shield.

Established in 1904, the Shield is the Club’s premier event and is run over 1600m. This year, the six-year-old gelding trained by Trevor Rowe and ridden by Ngarie Nelson produced a historic win, being only the third winner ridden by a lady Jockey.

Roy Chillemi from Tolga won the Trainer of the Meeting with three winners and Stephen Wilson from Tolga won Jockey of the Meeting with four winners and one third. With eleven races conducted over the two days and over $140,000 in prizemoney on offer, Club President David Murphy said it was a testament to the club’s reputation and facilities that so many trainers and jockeys were willing to make the trip to attend Oak Park.

Country casual fashion winners at Fridays races

Busta Atkinson and Milly Bakker-Meyers

Steve Shandiman (part owner), Tony Murphy (Patron of the Oak Park Race Club), Mick O’Grady from Bayer Australia (co-Sponsor), Trevor Rowe (Trainer and Part Owner), Joanna Hassett (representative of donors of the Trophy), Standford – winning horse, Peter Rowe (Rowe Racing Foreperson), Ngaire Nelson (winning Jockey), George Booth from Booth Rural Townsville (co-Sponsor), Leeanne Shandiman (Part Owner), Helen Rowe (Part Owner) Enthusiastic racegoers.

left to right

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Sharon Lee Chapman

sharon lee chapman photography Sharon Lee Chapman Photography has produced a number of her brilliant images as LIMITED EDITION PRINTS and they are now available in a variety of sizes and formats.

These would look stunning in any racing club, office or home.

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Chris, Noah, Ella & Peta Murphy

Samantha Hinze, Louise de Lissa & Johhny Ruffo

Come Along and Join us for the 124th Ergon Energy

WARWICK PICNIC RACES! Want to Attend a Race Day Like No Other?

The Elders Real Estate Pavilion is where you want to be.

Tickets on sale now!

Images by Bubbles Barbierato Photography

or $50 per person pre-paid or $55 per person at gate on the day, you will be entertained by the Coachman’s Inn Fashions on the Field, live racing action, sunset sausage sizzle and live music by Andrew Kucks & The Range after the last race until late. Remember this is a BYO area, you will need to bring your own food & drinks. For the everyday punter, entry to the Public area is $15 per person with full bars, TAB, bookmakers and canteen operating.

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and there will be a live on-site auction. Calcutta tickets will be on sale for $5 each (bring some friends and form a syndicate), catered finger food and Anna’s yummy hot ham rolls, cash bar and smart casual attire.

Ladies and Gents dress in your best race wear as the Coachman’s Inn Fashions on the Field has $5,000 in cash prizes for the Best Dressed Lady, Man, Couple, Millinery, Boy & Girl Over 10 & Under 10.

The final will focus the national spotlight on our leading country participants during the 2018 Queensland Winter Racing Carnival.

The night before the big race day is the Spano’s Supa IGA Warwick Picnics Calcutta Friday May 11th from 6.30pm at Allman Park. Admission is free

On this day the Warwick Turf Club are participating in the Battle of the Bush Country Race Series, which means 16 qualifiers from eight country regions will go to Doomben for a rich $100,000 final on Tattersall’s Tiara Day on June 23, 2018.

Ticketing forms for the Warwick Picnic Races available online at www.warwickturfclub.org.au or contact the Secretary, Kristen on 0414 899 854.

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CLERK OF THE COURSE No Ordinary Horse Story

Clerk of the Course can refer to both the rider and the horse – they are one and the same.

Attached at the hip… literally. Digger, Spinner and Aussie are not names you’ll find in the Race Book, but they are stars of racing in their own right. While it’s up to the likes of Winx and Redzel to captivate crowds, it’s Digger, Spanner, Aussie and the team of genial greys to see the show roll on without a hitch.

Story by Brad Gray • Image by Steve Hart

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essa Richardson has been a Clerk for four years now, operating mainly at Randwick, Rosehill and Canterbury and said the horses must have a very special temperament to do what they do.

“You know them backwards and they know you. Most of the time when they are doing their normal duties they are very passive, but as soon as they realise something has gone wrong they change completely and become very focused and quite aggressive,” explained Tessa.

“If there is a loose horse, they all know. Sometimes they know before we do. It sounds silly, but they can tell if there is a horse without a rider on it. They all know they must catch it and start getting up on their toes.

The perception is that they are docile, ‘doughy’ animals and while they are quiet, they can pull as hard as a racehorse if they want to.

“When they are hunting one down to catch it, for a short distance, they can be as quick as a Thoroughbred. They are athletes; just a different kind.”

The Thoroughbred breed was phased out of the Clerk ranks as they are built for sprinting and given a Clerk’s horse can travel upwards of 15km a day, the durability often lets them down.

“Generally, if a Thoroughbred has a good work ethic, they have been a good racehorse and you can never get the racehorse out of them. The ones we use are more for endurance.

“They are educated differently being stock horses, they are tougher too.

The stock horse breed is derived from Walers, an Australian Breed, which were used in first World War 1 as Cavalry horses.

“They are hearty little things, they just don’t ever stop. They just keep going,” she said.

Tessa, who currently divides her time between being a Clerk and riding work for Mark Newnham after a stint with Gai Waterhouse, was originally courted by Head Clerk, Mick Stanley, who is currently sidelined with a knee injury.

“Mick approached me at the track one day and asked if it was something I’d be interested in. I said yes, because it is a pretty coveted job,” said Tessa.

“I had a strong background in Equestrian beforehand, so I had done a bit of everything which helps, because riding the ponies is very different to riding racehorses. You have to have the pony so it’s part of you. You have to be strong, but a lot of it is about technique. You will never outmuscle a horse. That’s just a general rule of working with horses.

“You are never going to beat them on strength, so you have to either outsmart them or negotiate with them. Let them think they are getting their own way.”

Leading highly strung horses to the gates is only part of a day’s work and although some of them come with warnings, often it’s the Clerk’s first dealing with a troublesome horse.

“Every horse is different. Sometimes you have never seen these horses before and when you grab hold of them you have to make an assessment then and there. They might try to flip over, and you need to talk them out of that and get them to behave. Some just won’t go at all.

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“We have a couple that throw the anchor out and you have to figure out how to get them to move,” Tessa said.

“We do have our usual customers which are certain horses we see every time they race, because the pony keeps them calmer.

“As soon as they get on the grass a lot of them think they can bolt. We have to make sure they get to the gates without impacting the market, in an order where they are fit to race.”

There are a number of horses the Clerks use, all with different levels of experience, backgrounds and personality quirks, but Digger is a favourite of Tessa.

“He was Mick’s pony, so he was really well educated. He is reliable and very quick when he needs to be. If one is loose, he’ll catch it no matter what. He is just that fast,” Tessa continued.

“He is brave and aggressive which they need to be, because if you are taking a Colt to the gates they will try to put it over you and he just puts them straight back in their place. “Racehorses are very strong and will try to go through you if they can, but he doesn’t cop any of that. He pushes back just as hard.”

Tessa counts leading in Winx and Sweet Idea as highlights and recalls her eye-opening first day on the job, having been called into action at Randwick after Kathy O’Hara took a tumble.

“It gave me a good introduction. The loose horse came past, and Mick caught it straight away. I was a bit star struck about what had happened. I was on Aussie, our most experienced horse, and he took off after it without me even realising what was happening. He knew his job and I was just a passenger; he knew where he was going and went after it,” Tessa said laughing.

“It was my first experience of how dangerous a jockey’s job is. You understand it a bit more when you see that happen, especially on your first day. You don’t really understand sitting in the Grandstand. When I brought Sweet Idea back from The Missile that was pretty good, because I was working at Gai’s at the time and I really liked the horse.

“Bringing Winx back after she won a Group 2 at Randwick is another one.

I have a photo on my wall leading her in. She is a special horse and her wins at various racetracks are amazing. We can hear the crowds from the barriers and as soon as the gates opened, the crowd start roaring.

“Then when Hughie goes right down along the Grandstands and the Public Section start screaming. It is a unique experience and l hadn’t seen anything like it.”

Tessa who has been riding horses since she can remember, needed a job when she was 19 and two of her friends were riding work for Gai. That was her entry point into the Industry and she spent five years with Gai. Tessa started two days out from Pierro winning the Golden Slipper before seeing the likes of Fiorente, Overreach, Sweet Idea, Vancouver, Cosmic Endeavour, English and More Joyous filter through the stable.

Then there was Glencadam Gold, winner of the 2012 Metropolitan, who is living out his life in a paddock at Rossmoore under the care of Tessa. The now 10-year-old import had feet issues when he arrived in Australia and they still need to be managed.

Tessa Richardson alongside Winx and Hugh Bowman after a Royal Randwick win

“He is a cheeky horse. He can be nasty sometimes, but I love him, and I was lucky enough that Gai, Adrian and the owners let me keep him afterwards. I don’t ride him often as he doesn’t like it. He wants to be like a fat old retired man eating, so I let him. He is happy and has done enough work in his life. He is not a cuddly horse, but he is tough, brave and has a sense of humour which I find quite rare in horses.” Tessa said.

These days, Tessa rides fast and slow work six mornings a week for Mark, with the two striking up a close working relationship during their time under Gai. “Mark has always been great to work with and very good to me. I said to him if you get your own licence I’ll come and work with you. About six weeks later he had six horses out at Warwick Farm and then a couple of weeks after that I came out as well. I was his first employee

there. We have also opened at Randwick since.

“The horses make you smile. When you have a really good gallop on one, they amaze you. You do the same thing every day, but they can still amaze you with what they can do. It’s all about the horses, that’s why I’m in it.”

The winner of last year’s Group 2 Skyline Stakes, Diamond Tathagata, who also went on to run in the Golden Slipper, already holds a special place for Tessa. “Mark did some of his major gallops, but I rode him a lot. He is special to me as I’ve worked with him since he came from the Breakers and being Mark’s first Group winner, he’ll always be a very special horse.

“Henry (Diamond Tathagata’s stable name) ran second to She Will Reign and then won a Group Two which was validation for Mark that he was already on the right track getting immediate results from a small pool of horses.”

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The Coffs Coasts’ most prestigious race event of the year!

COFFS HARBOUR GOLD CUP 2018

Join the avid racegoers, the fashion-forward, and the punters, as they gather at Coffs Harbour’s race grounds for the race day event of the year! The Carlton Draught Coffs Harbour Gold Cup is a wonderful opportunity to socialise, entertain and celebrate the sport of horse racing.

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ow in its 54th year, the Coffs Cup has grown to be an iconic part of the Mid North Coast events calendar, with trainers and jockeys traveling from far and wide to compete for the prestigious Gold Cup. And with more to see, more to do, and more fun to be had this designated public holiday on the Coffs Coast, it’s no wonder racegoers flock from miles around, with some 6,000+ crowd each year.

With an 8 Race TAB program, large on track screen, centrally located bars and delicious food options provided by our newly appointed caterer, The Cater Group, the day will certainly not disappoint.

With a variety of hospitality packages available, there’s an option to suit all racegoers preferences. Wine and dine in the various Luncheon

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events, play host at Corporate Marquee, be pampered in the VIP Lounge, kick back at the popular Lawn Party precinct, or revel in General Admission with the bubbly crowds.

The fashions are certainly not to be missed, with the large crowds dressing to impress. The Fashions on the Field is a hotly contested event with multiple entry categories and thousands of dollars in prizes to share in, they are always worth a look in.

Don’t miss your chance to experience Carlton Draught 2018 Coffs Harbour Gold Cup for yourself on Thursday, 2nd August 2018.

For ticketing and hospitality enquiries or to purchase online please visit www.coffsracingclub.com.au, call the club phone (02) 6652 1488 or email: events@coffsracingclub.com.au

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LE DAIN DESIGNS SUMMER CUP Fashions at t he t rack COFFS HARBOUR RACING CLUB • FRIDAY DECEMBER 29, 2017

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Images courtesy Carole Beros

BLACK OPAL STAKES Canberra Cent re Fashions on t he field THOROUGHBRED PARK, CANBERRA • SUNDAY MARCH 11, 2018

It was all about ‘attention to detail’ in the fashions on the field contest. The winner was Aimee Hay from Tathra while the runner up was Emma Wells.

The best millinery on the day was worn

by Lucy Hoolihan and the runner up was Viviana Croker.

It was an emotional race for Canberra trainer Nick Olive who wanted to win his first Black Opal in his late mother’s honour but it was not to be. His previously unbeaten Sizzling Belle was run down at the line by James Cummings’ favourite Encryption.

Images courtesy Thoroughbred Park

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It’s Time to Frock up for the Annual Girls Day Out at

SHOALHAVEN CITY TURF CLUB! The annual Country Motor Company Girls Day Out/Nowra Cup is fast approaching! The day will be held on Sunday May 20th at the Shoalhaven City Turf Club, Archer racecourse.

he race club is located in Nowra on the picturesque NSW south coast, and it is a race club that is steeped in history with Nowra being home to two Melbourne Cup Winning horses – Archer (whom the track is named after) and Arwon which is Nowra spelled backwards.

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Last year, the competition was hotly contested, and the race club saw a new level of fashion at their track. In 2018, they are once again hoping to see a high level of participation and some beautiful race day fashion on display.

The day hosts the Showcase Nowra Cup and top- class country racing will be on display throughout the day. The other major race on the day is the Belle of the South specifically for Fillies and Mares and in line with the Girls Day Out theme.

“What could be more fun for a Girls Day Out race day then getting all dressed up, drinking some bubbles and hopefully backing some winners … and all with the girls,” said the turf’s club Fashion Coordinator. “It’s all about having classy race day fun.”

The other highlight of the day is the Fashions on the Field competition, with a $10, 000 prize pool up for grabs across five categories.

Sharon Lenton from Thoroughbred Events Australia will host the Fashions on the Field competition, alongside a prestigious judging panel, including international fashion illustrator, Alison Sargent of ‘When Dogs Get Wings’.

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Several Race Day packages are available. Please contact Shoalhaven City Turf Club on phone: (02) 4421 4550 or call the Club’s Event Co-Ordinator on 0420 824 440 or more information or if you would like to book a race day package.

What would you attempt to do if you knew you could not fail?

- Unknoiwn

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WENDY’S CUPS DOUBLE Thoroughbred horse racing is one of Australia’s biggest Industries and relies on a large number of people in various roles, to help play their part to allow the thousands that attend the races to enjoy their day. Such positions include Stable Hands/Strappers, Gate Attendants, Security, Administrators and Bar Staff, the list goes on and on.

Story by Kylie Johnson • Image by Daryl Duckworth Photography

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ithout the support of Owners, who entrust Trainers with their Equine stars and track work Riders who also give up their sleep ins, possibly the most important person we look to in order to enjoy our day at the races are those who put their life on the line to steer home the horses; the Jockeys.

Regardless of when their apprenticeship starts, the one thing that is high on the list of every new jockey is to notch up that elusive first win. Some may achieve it early in their career, while for others it may take a little longer, but when it does the celebration that follows are all similar.

Just like the usual trades (Mechanics, Tradies, Builders etc.), Jockeys also undertake an Apprenticeship, which assists them in learning their trade, while working their way up the ranks to one day outride their apprenticeship claim.

On the Metropolitan scenes we are to see a large portion of the up and coming talent in the apprenticeship ranks, however, what we may forget is that even on the Country and the Picnic scene we have some just as talented Apprentices who work as hard as their city counterparts to forge a name for themselves in the Industry.

In all areas (City/Provincial/Country) in all States of Australia, there are a large number of apprentice jockeys (both male and female), that will start their apprenticeship when they are quite young. Most have decided to leave School before graduating in Year 12, while others may decide later in their life.

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Scone in NSW, more commonly referred to as the Horse Capital of Australia, is home to not only some of the biggest Thoroughbred Stud Farms where past Champions of the turf such as Redoute’s Choice, Snitzel, Capitalist, Lonhro and many more reside.

It was also the birth place of 25 year old apprentice Jockey Wendy Peel, who started her trade later than most, but recently found out what scoring the elusive Maiden win was like. She has managed to continue her success on the same horse to win back-to-back Cups on the country scene.

The country town of Tumbarumba is located 480kms from Sydney on the border of the Riverina and South West Slopes Regions, with a small population of less than 2,000 people. On the February 3rd, this small town celebrated their biggest race meeting of the year; the 2018 Tumbarumba Cup. With a text book ride, the Scott Spackman-trained Didn’t Even Kiss Me, was first past the post with 25 year old apprentice Wendy Peel on board.

Two weeks later on February 17th, Wendy and Didn’t Even Kiss Me were paired up again and in the 2018 Tumut Cup. Tumut, is a small country town in the Riverina Region, 410kms from Sydney with a population of just 6,230 people. Attracting growing crowds from both locals and those that travel the racing circuit, the Club is to be commended for yet another stellar meeting in 2018.

The Club hosted a card of six races and what a weekend for the ladies, with Lady Jockey’s winning five races and being successful in achieving the Trifecta in the Garry Gillespie Constructions Tumut Cup; Wendy Peel, Kayla Nisbet and Stacey Metcalfe.

In another stellar performance, Wendy was able to steer home the Four year old Grey Mare to a very dominating win by six and a half lengths. It was pretty evident how much this win meant to this young lady, as the closer she arrived to the post the huge grin which could be seen on her face was luckily captured on camera.

When the dust had settled on her win and Wendy was able to comprehend her recent successes with the mare, I received an opportunity to talk with her and learn more about how this young lady was doing in racing.

Q. Congratulations on the win, how do you feel?

Thank you, it was fantastic to get win number two on the board, especially another Cup win!!

Q. So now that you are the toast of Tumut, tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born in Scone, NSW. My family then moved to a small country town in North West NSW, Spring Ridge, near Quirindi. My younger brother Grant and I grew up there with our parents and we rode horses before we could walk.

I did Pony Club, Eventing and Show Jumping. When I was 12 years old, I went to boarding school in Tamworth then I moved to Armidale to complete my final years at New England Girls School, I took my horses with me to boarding school, so I was still able to compete and I absolutely loved it!

After College I have travelled and worked overseas preparing Yearlings for the Sales, while I also rode a little bit in Newmarket, England for Roger Varian and Alan King a jumps Trainer. Both were great experiences and a real eye opener! I highly recommend young people to travel to gain firsthand experience of the European style of riding and training!

In New Zealand I was Yearling Manager for a small Stud, Wellfield. I was also riding work in the mornings for Gary Vile, Palmerston North.

HOST: NADIA HORNE 10.00AM TO 1.00PM: MON TO FRI

In June 2016, I moved to Sydney and started riding work for Gai Waterhouse, then at the end of the year I moved to Peter Robl’s to commence my apprenticeship.

Q. How and when did you get the racing bug?

I had always loved preparing yearlings and I have always loved racing.

My Mum actually worked for Peter Snowden when he first began training in Scone, and my Mum’s family have raced a few horses over the years. I had an interest while I was at College when I was 18, I always had it in the back of my mind that I wanted to give it a go, but Mum never pushed the issue. I think she actually tried to steer me clear of racing, so I just rode my own horses, until in 2016 I finally bit the bullet and said I’m going to do my apprenticeship and that was that, I haven’t looked back since.

Now Mum and Dad support me 100%! Once you start riding track work, all you want to do is take it to the next level, and that’s what I did!

Q. Do you remember your first ride?

Yes, I do, it was at Canberra, in early December 2017, on a Gelding that Peter had. I had ridden him in a few trials and he was a lovely quiet ride, he went around for me and did everything right! I was quite relaxed, I think it was because I knew the horse so well.

Q. What has been you most memorable moment so far in your career?

Probably my first win, especially being a Country Cup, then two weeks later winning on Kissa again was very special. It gave me so much pleasure to win for Scott and Donna Spackman, they are lovely country people and I’m very grateful for their faith in me.

Q. Tell us about your life as a jockey I ride work for my boss Peter Robl, then I head off to the races sometime in the morning, depending on where and at what time I’m riding.

Nothing else changes on race day, preparation is done prior to race day.

I go to the gym five to six days a week, to help with my fitness and balance. I ride work at Rosehill on a Wednesday to build up contacts and riding various other horses gives you more experience, even if it is just track work.

Q. Are you a regular rider for a specific stable?

No, at this stage I’m just trying to obtain rides wherever I can and build up contacts, I’m riding in the country for the moment, until I lose my country claim.

Q. What is the one race you would like to win and why?

I would love nothing more than to win the Melbourne Cup and the Magic Millions 2 YO race would be awesome to win. I do love two year old racing.

Q. If you were not a jockey, what would you be?

I don’t know exactly what work I would have done, but it would have been definitely have been something to do with horses, riding horses is all I’ve grown up wanting to do.

Wendy is definitely a young lady that is making her mark on the riding ranks in the country and with all the hard work that she puts in, is starting to experience the dividends. Wendy Peel is one name that you should put in your black book and continue to watch this star on the rise.

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Christine Bowman – had seen Sydney on the TV show ‘Home and Away’

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MRS BOWMAN has a ‘Tail’ to Tell

In a sliding door moment, Christine Bowman tossed a coin to determine whether she would travel to Australia or America – luckily, she didn’t head ‘em up!

Story by Ray Hickson • Images by Bradley Photographers

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hristine occasionally wonders what her life would be like had a coin she tossed in 2002 landed on heads and not tails. Christine Walsh, as she was then, had spent most of the Spring in Melbourne tending to her Boss Dermot Weld’s two Cup chances, Media Puzzle and Vinnie Roe.

We all know their story.

This story is the tale of how a young Irish lass, wanting to travel, put her fate in the hands of a coin toss and became Australian racing royalty.

“I said to myself, ‘where do I want to go?’ I’ll either go to America or to Australia,” she recalled. “So, I flipped a coin, heads was America and tails was Australia. It landed on tails and I thought well, that’s good because I was just there a few weeks ago’. “I landed in Sydney with no money and no job. The only thing I knew how do to was ride horses. I had seen Sydney on the TV, on Home and Away. It was picturesque.”

A conversation with a stranger while she was staying in a backpacker hotel at Marrickville, led her to discover Randwick. Christine had told the older man about her journey from Ireland and her Melbourne Cup tale and he couldn’t believe it. He insisted she should head to Sydney’s racing epicentre. I said, “What’s Randwick?’ and he replied, “There’s a racecourse, with lots of Trainers and a street called High Street where they all train. I think I travelled on two Buses and a Taxi that day, it took me two hours to get there.

“I walked up and down and had a look; I saw the Grahame Begg sign and Bart Cummings, and I came to Ron Quinton. “I thought, Ron used to ride for John Oxx in Ireland in the ‘80s and he’ll know Irish people so surely that’d be my best bet of getting job.” Ron said, “There’s an Irish girl working for me in the Office, you might know her”. Her name was Lisa and we knew each other well, we were Apprentice Jockeys together in Ireland years ago. She vouched for me big time and I owe her a lot of thanks.”

Long before that fateful coin toss, Christine left home at 14 to become an Apprentice Jockey. She worked for Dermot Weld; very badly, is her description of her riding; and the day she rode her first winner she retired from the saddle. “Dermot was never so glad,” she said. “When I went to the office after the winner I said, “Look Mr Weld, I don’t think race riding is for me.” and he said, “Good choice.”

It was on an outing to the Randwick Shopping Centre with Lisa where Christine met a young Hugh, but said she didn’t take much notice of him. Not long after he asked her out, using his impending birthday as a reason for the date. She said no! He asked two more times before Christine relented and the rest, as they say, is history.

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All because a random coin landed on tails. “I do wonder what might have happened, but in my heart of hearts I believe it was fate, I believe I was meant to land on Australia,” she said.

When you talk to Christine she has a presence. Perhaps it’s an Irish charm; she can talk anyone under the table; but her self-deprecating nature is refreshing. No wonder the young jockey named Hugh wanted to know her. Fast forward and Hugh Bowman is the Nation’s leading rider, internationally renowned and regular partner of Winx.

Christine has watched the kid from Dunedoo grow as a person and as a Jockey and said he’s worked hard on all facets of himself and she couldn’t be prouder. “I can’t believe his success, but he’s done a lot of the hard yards,” she said. “He’s such a good Ambassador for racing, he wants racing in Australia to be the best it can be. It’s been wonderful watching his career go from strength to strength and great to be part of it.”

Hugh and Christine have two girls, four-year-old Bambi and two-and a-half-year-old Paige. Their family is what drives the Bowmans. “In our house, it’s more about the Wiggles and Taylor Swift than racing,” she said. “Before the kids came along we used to watch a lot of racing and replays, but now it’s more about the children.

“When we flew home after the Third Cox Plate win by Winx and Hugh, we walked in the door and it was back to reality. The kids didn’t have a clue, it was like we’d never left, and nothing happened. It keeps us grounded and keeps us focused.”

Of course, the other woman in Hugh’s life is Winx. Christine often refers to the Champion by that term but she’s just as in love with the Mare as her husband is. “They do have a love affair going on, I don’t think she loves any jockey as much as she loves him. And he loves her,” she said. “Never in our wildest dreams did we think it could happen, especially so soon after Black Caviar. We thought it’d be the next generation when a Winx came along. As quickly as you are on the diamond heap you could be back on the other heap, so you don’t take it for granted. We’re blessed.”

In past years there have been some very easy wins, some heart-stopping moments and the crowning glory of that historic Cox Plate. She’s not in the spotlight as much as Hugh but the Winx ride is something Christine is happy to savour. “I don’t ever want it to end,” she said. “I’m sure it will be a sense of relief to everybody involved but it comes and goes so quickly. For me, I’m trying to hold onto it as much as I can.”

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SUSIE HORVATH

Follows Her Heart into Racing Susie Horvath, from the Gai Waterhouse/Adrian Bott stable, speaks to Meg Brownlow about her background and love of racehorses.

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Story by Meg Brownlow • Image by Amanda Wood

was born and raised in Hungary, which was then a socialist system under Soviet domination, so I didn’t have any opportunity to own a horse or to be involved with horses. My Grandfather, however, had a small vineyard in the country and he would borrow a horse called Star to plough the fields.

Whenever I knew that Star was at the farm, I would go there so I could sit on her back and ride to the field and home again. Those days were the happiest days for me! The educational system was very good in Hungary at that time.

I started school at six years of age and progressed to Primary School with one Teacher; in the later years each subject had a different Teacher.

After our final High School exam, we had the opportunity to go to University, but the entrance exams were very tough and excluded many. Everybody had to work and there were jobs for everyone, but if you didn’t work for more than seven days the Police stopped you for an identification check and you were likely to be in trouble.

In those days travel outside Hungary was restricted. We were permitted to visit other socialist countries once a year and capitalist countries only once every three years, but this all changed in 1989 when Hungary finally became an Independent Democracy. Now the educational system, work, and free access to travel is similar to that in Australia.

I love to spend time in Hungary now as my family is still there; my Mother and my Brother with his four beautiful children. In 1988, I came to Sydney and found employment at Bondi Beach in one of its most famous coffee shops, eventually becoming Staff Manager and working there until it was sold in 2013.

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In 1999 I decided to do a TAFE Course in either Hospitality or Horse Management. During an hour-long interview with a Counsellor I asked her: “What would you do if you were in my shoes?” All she said was, “I can’t make the decision for you, but you should see yourself when you’re talking about horses.” I shall never forget those words. Of course, I decided to follow my heart and chose the horse industry strand at Ultimo TAFE. In 2001, I obtained a job with Gai Waterhouse. I found it very hard, especially finishing at midnight in the coffee shop and having to start at the stables at four in the morning. When the shop was sold I stayed in hospitality, working four days a week at one of the Universities in a coffee lounge. My days were hectic, I had to be up at 2am to be at the stables by 2.45am, finishing with the horses at 8.15am then working from 10am till 4pm in the coffee lounge. Friday, Saturday and Sunday were horses only, Sunday being Owners’ Day at Tulloch Lodge.

Horses are special to me and being able to work with them every day is a joy. They are such large, powerful animals and for the most part, they want to please and work with you. Weighing as they do between 450 and 600kg, if they don’t want to walk with you and be ridden they could easily resist. Physically you can’t overpower them, you have to coerce them psychologically. I talk to my horses and I believe that they understand from my body language what I want from them. They respond and come to me for love and affection and they know when they have been good or naughty.

“…you should see yourself when you’re talking about horses.” I shall never forget those words.

Each horse is different with its own personality and special needs.

Racehorses are incredible athletes but to be at the top level they must be determined and want to win. I believe I can give them the confidence through love and affection to try to be the very best they can be.

Gai took over her father’s business and like children of many successful people she could easily have failed. Instead, she was able to develop the business even further, with huge success. Gai has a natural intuition about horses; she can look at a horse and know precisely what it needs to perform at its best. Gai is also a great teacher and she tries to make the people around her the very best that they can be, something and I really appreciate. She has such enthusiasm for racing and this energy infects everyone connected with the stable. I have learnt so much from my time working with Gai and I intend to keep on learning.

As part of my role I also help to run Sundays at the stable where we are open for all our owners to come to visit their marvelous horses. I really enjoy meeting with all the different people who are involved in the racing industry and sharing the success of their horses with them.

There are many long-term employees at Tulloch Lodge (like myself for

more than 16 years) and I think it reveals much about Gai as a boss; she is simply remarkable and fantastic to work for.”

Meg’s Comment: Susie was nominated for Strapper of the Year by the Gai Waterhouse stable, they cited how invaluable she was with younger, nervous horses and how she was able to keep them calm. They also commented on the important role Susie performed in taking new staff under her wing and teaching them the ropes.

Now that I know about Susie’s background in hospitality, it’s easy to understand why when I arrive to take a pre-race blood sample from one of her horses on a raceday, she welcomes me as if I was a guest in the Executive Suite at the Hilton.

To say Susie has a bright and happy personality is an understatement, but it’s the unreserved love and affection she lavishes on the horses in her care which really impresses. One wonders how she does it all, but don’t stop, Susie! You keep life from becoming dull and boring.

Gai Waterhouse, you have certainly hit the jackpot here.”

opposite: Susie Horvath parades with Dee I Cee prior to racing at Rosehill Gardens

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DONNA

‘wears the Pants’ There can be only one Boss when it comes to a racing stable and on this, Kembla Grange couple Jon and Donna Grisedale firmly agree.

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Story by Mark Brassel • Images by Bradley Photographers

hey might not have the biggest operation in the country, but the Grisedales put the polish on about half a dozen horses at the South Coast track of Kembla Grange and consider it a team effort.

“She’s the Boss – I just do what I’m told!” veteran hoop Jon said. “It works better like that.” Donna then quipped: “It works because I tell him what to do and I know he will do it. I never have to worry about much when Jon is riding them.”

Jon has made a comeback in the saddle at 54 after breaking a leg and most mornings he heads out on stock trained by Donna, before heading to other Kembla Trainers to work their horses.

Donna took up training seven years ago after spending a lifetime around stables and the couple moved to Kembla from Hawkesbury, when they decided to increase their team. “We had a number of our own horses and I was working in the stable helping train them and people kept asking me why I am paying someone else to do what I can do myself,” Donna said. “It made sense, so about seven years ago, we gave it a crack at Hawkesbury and then we moved to Kembla six years ago and have been going at it since.”

Donna has had 77 winners and works with only a few horses but is passionate. She learned in some of the best stables in Sydney, but one man beyond all influenced her. “Jack Denham,” Donna said. “I learnt everything I know about training when I was there. I had a year with Chris Waller and in other stables like Mark de Montfort when he started up, but it was Jack where I learnt what you need to know.”

Most mornings Donna will be at the stables preparing the horses while Jon works them, and she admits she rarely needs to watch them. “That is the great thing about having Jon, I know he will do the work I want. If he doesn’t then he is in trouble,” she said. “He is probably one of the best trackwork riders, he has a clock in his head. He got it working for Team Hawkes. So, I can work around the stable and leg him on and then at the end of the morning we go through how they are going.”

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Jon Grisedale nearly gave it away after breaking a leg a couple of years ago, but his love of the sport saw him return to the saddle and winners with Donna. He has ridden more than 1200 winners in his career which started by chasing Darren Beadman in apprentice titles in Sydney. But most of all, he is respected around the tracks as hardworking, but there is an extra pleasure working with his wife.

“We only have a small team but there is a satisfaction when we get a winner together, because I know how much goes into it,” Jon said. “We were up to 24 horses there a couple of years back, but that brought its own challenges with staff and getting paid, so now we are back to about six which we mostly own ourselves, in addition we have a few good clients. We have tried to keep a couple of good ones, like everyone else. We have just received some nice two-year-olds at the ready to run sale, so hopefully we can manage a to receive some more winners.”

David Fuller, who owned Metal Bender, is a supporter of the Grisedales while Illawarra Turf Club also has a Syndicated horse in their yard. “To have people like them and our friends in a couple of horses makes it fun,” Donna said. “David has been great to us and he still has horses with Chris Waller, but we get one or two which are well bred which makes a difference.

We just need a bit of good fortune.”

Donna Grisedale has only had the one winner for the season, with a series of near misses with seven minor placing from just 17 runners. “Those nose defeats kill you, because you go home thinking what if this happened,” Donna said. “We are getting our horses in the right races and you want to have winners because that is what this game is all about. We are going to be doing this for a while yet, because we love our horses and I would like to get 100 winners and have one or two that can go to town and win.” above: Donna Grisedale leads Smiling All (Rachel King) prior to the horse finishing runner-up at Nowra inset: Jon Grisedale: “I just do what I’m told!”

A RACETRACK SOMEWHERE

Flemington, Randwick, Doomben, Morphettville, Ascot, Hobart and Darwin.

Most passionate racegoers can recall the above names and other prominent popular racecourses, but did you know there are over 2,600 race meetings held annually at over 360 registered racetracks all over Australia?

Story by Tai Ryan • Images Courtesy - A Racetrack Somewhere

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acing’s premier documentary series, A Racetrack Somewhere, is a journey into the heart of some of Australia’s most iconic and remote race meetings.

The documentary, which was aired first on Racing.com, has been awarded the EQUUS Film Festival’s Best Equestrian Series International in New York.

The five-part documentary series, produced by well-known popular Journalist, Jo McKinnon, explores the essence of remote and iconic horse racing in Australia. It is the first Australian production to receive a Winnie Award in the Festival’s five-year history.

Equus Film Festival Director Lisa Diersen, who also sits on the judging panel, said: “We just loved this Series and enjoyed it so much. We hope to see plenty more of it in the future.”

A Racetrack Somewhere took more than two years to film, with the production team travelling more than 14,000 kilometres from one end of Australia to the other to produce the Series.

It features Thoroughbred race meetings at Birdsville in outback Queensland, Darwin in the Northern Territory, Warrnambool in Victoria, Kangaroo Island in South Australia and King Island in Tasmania.

“It was such an honour to have the Series showcased at such a unique and well regarded Equine focussed Film Festival and it’s so exciting to have it screened alongside some brilliant content from all around the world,” Jo said.

“To win the Winnie Award was such a big thrill and a huge endorsement of the Series from an audience that has always been so fascinated by Australiana.”

Apart from screening on Racing.com, A Racetrack Somewhere has been broadcast on airlines QANTAS and Air New Zealand in-flight TV. A well-known racing Journalist, Host and Ambassador, Jo McKinnon was Sky Racing’s first female anchor, hosting race days and their Sunday review show, Racing Retro. She has also worked for Moonee Valley Racing Club, Aushorse and the Hong Kong Jockey Club. I chatted with Jo after her return from New York: You were involved in Equestrian competition growing up. Where did your interest in racing come from?

Racing captured my attention when I was very young. I remember being completely mystified by the beauty, grace and speed of the racehorse.

Then I had my first bet on Kiwi to win the Melbourne Cup. He won and I was hooked! I remember counting my pile of two dollar notes all the way home in the back of the car!

What inspired the creation of the A Racetrack Somewhere documentary?

Was this the first time you’ve worked on such a project with your brother?

I had wanted to do this for a long time. Travelling to race meetings all around Australia in my job with Sky I always felt that there were so many good stories that needed to be told and characters to showcase.

Plus, a lot of Country meetings are in far flung and very beautiful places, that I found so inspiring. I wanted to capture that and share it with people. It was also about connecting with what makes me proud to be

Australian. It was great for my much younger brother Lachlan to see this side of Australia too and it was a special opportunity for us to travel and work together and share in a very unique experience and challenge.

From the first Series, what was your favourite track to visit?

They were all special, but I think Birdsville was certainly the most awe inspiring. I had always been fascinated by the place, so when we first arrived it was a moment for me. It felt a bit like landing on the Moon!

Your career has taken you around the world. Are there any Racetracks or Carnivals you’re still yet to tick off your bucket list?

I am very lucky that my work has taken me where it has and introduced me to some extraordinary people and experiences. I would love to go to the Kentucky Derby in the United States one day, also the Prix De L’Arc De Triomphe in France and a really crazy, fun meeting would be Il Palio in Italy.

Is there a Series Two in the pipeline, or what’s your next project on your Agenda?

I am currently working through plans for another Series and ways we can internationalise the concept. In New York there was a lot of interest from the Americans in seeing more of this content, so we will see what we can do. Now that we have some serious momentum around the Series and people have shown how much they love it, there is something telling me we must embark on another Series. l also have lots of other program ideas. I just wish there was more time in the days! Stay tuned!

It is currently being distributed globally on DVD, with planning for the second series is now underway.

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TASH MARKS HER TERRITORY Quiet achiever Tash Burleigh, celebrated the most sentimental victory of her training career last November, winning the race honouring her late mentor, Graeme Spackman.

Story by Julieanne Horsman • Images by Bradley Photographers

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ash Burleigh wasn’t born into a horsey family but can’t remember not loving horses. As soon as she could talk she began begging her Carpenter Father and stay-at-home Mother (Tash is the eldest of five children), for a Pony and when she turned seven they relented.

Tash spent hours learning to ride her Welsh Mountain Pony named Sunny and discovered the ins and outs of caring for a horse. By the time she turned 14 she had saved enough money to buy her second Pony, Phantom, who she still has today. “I’d ride and ride and ride until the sun went down,” she said. “At first my parents had to help me but as I became older, I could do more myself and spent as much time riding as I could. It was a great way to learn about responsibility.”

Tash thought all her Christmases had come at once when she landed her first job helping around Robbie Griffiths’s Cranbourne stables.

After graduating from Year 12, she secured trackwork and stablehand licences and began working for several trainers in the Balnarring area.

It cemented her desire to make a career out of horse racing and she worked hard to learn as much as she could, but bubbling away in the back of her mind was the ambition to be a Jockey. “I wanted to be a jockey but wasn’t sure where to start and was under the impression I wouldn’t make it, so I didn’t do anything about it for a long time. But eventually I started my apprenticeship in 2011 and moved to Sydney six months later.” Once again Tash showed intense dedication as a jockey, working around the stables in the morning and racing in the afternoon.

In search of better opportunities in the country, she shifted her indentures to Graeme Spackman in Goulburn in 2013 and had completed her apprenticeship in 2015. All up Tash rode 48 winners and 100 placegetters, before realising the hard truth that opportunities are limited for a non-claiming young Jockey.

Life sometimes throws up the most perfectly timed opportunities and as Tash was weighing up her options, Graeme Spackman offered her a

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job as the Foreman of his Goulburn stable. “He said to me, you don’t have to run off and get an office job, why don’t you come and work with me, so I did,” she said.

“Goulburn is a great place to live and work. There’s fresh air, no traffic, the people are friendly, the racecourse has excellent facilities and the horses thrive. Everyone is here to help each other and it’s not a cliquey track at all.”

She and Spacky formed an effective team. They would arrive at the Goulburn stables before sunrise. He’d feed the horses and she’d prep them before working them. They travelled to every race meeting together, racking up thousands of kilometres in his truck. As she got into a routine, slowly the hustle and bustle of city life faded away. “I remember one time we got our wires crossed and I was supposed to nominate some horses, but I thought he was doing it,” she said. “He asked me if I had put those nominations in and when I said I hadn’t he didn’t lose his temper, he just accepted it and moved to Plan B. He was like that, he never carried on and was always calm and it rubbed off on me. He had a great attitude and always said, ‘old mate, you will be alright’.”

One morning Graeme came into the stables and was unusually quiet.

“He sat me down and said, “Look, I’m going to retire, it’s time’, and I said no, you can’t,” Tash recalled. “We knew he was sick with Cancer, but we didn’t realise the extent of it because he never complained, he just kept pushing though.” Tash was granted her own Trainer’s Licence in July 2016 and took over Graeme’s stable completely in the following November.

The existing owners were happy to leave their horses there as Graeme still had input to their training. Reverence gave Tash her first winner at Bong Bong picnic races on November 18th, 2016 and the winners kept coming. In her first season Tash trained 10 winners and 25 placegetters from just 88 starts.

opposite: Tash Burleigh and Graeme Spackman celebrate Transcending’s win at Goulburn in 2013 above left: Connections of Territorial after he won the Graeme Spackman Memorial Cup above right: Tash and stable favourite Ribands after winning at Canberra In January 2017, Graeme Spackman lost his battle with Cancer at the age of 73 and everyone who knew and loved him was devastated. “It was so hard, but you just have to keep turning up and trying to make sure your horses are happy,” Tash said.

“My first year as a Trainer has been bitter sweet, but I’ve had such wonderful support from my family, friends, Owners, Graeme’s family, plus the Goulburn racing community.

“Graeme’s wife Judy is still a part-owner of Wings and his son Warwick has a share in one of our new horses.”

Tash celebrated the most special win of her career in early November 2017, when she won the Graeme Spackman Memorial Cup with

Territorial at her home track. “As soon as the race was announced, I wanted to win it and I’m so happy the stars aligned,” she said. “There was a Memorial Luncheon on the day and a busload of Graeme’s family came down from the Highlands. It was a very real Spacky day.”

Today Tash has 10 horses in her stable and still rides most of her own work. Her partner, Patrick Murphy, helps with the trackwork although he has only recently returned to riding after breaking his shoulder in a riding accident. Stephen ‘Archie’ Carter also helps out, having worked for Graeme for many years. “I love it. Nothing is a chore when you’re working with horses. I consider myself very lucky I stumbled down this path.”

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Josh won on Pomelo for me, which made the day even better. “When you have seen where they have come from, it makes me happy to see them riding in the big races and winning in Sydney.”

Gwenda keeps tabs on her former apprentices and watched as Kathy ran second in the Caulfield Cup on Single Gaze and rode the mare in the Melbourne Cup. “It was probably the best ride in the race and I thought she was going to win it in the straight,” Gwenda said of the Caulfield Cup. “Kathy is riding with great confidence, but still doesn’t get the chances the boys receive. She is just as good as them and getting stronger all the time.”

Gwenda knows what it takes to have a Champion Sydney Apprentice, even from a Provincial Centre, and allows her apprentices the time to develop their skills. She is not afraid to push them to ride work for the bigger stables in Sydney. While Winona didn’t win the apprentice title when indentured to Gwenda, she had a lot to do with her early career before she went to Sydney. “Winona was always very determined,” Gwenda said. “They need to have that, and they need to learn well before going away.”

Gwenda Markwell – helping shape some promising apprentices

KEMBLA’S

Master of Apprentices Kembla Grange’s leading Trainer, Gwenda Markwell, has been making a name for herself putting the polish on some up and coming young Jockeys.

Story by Mark Brassel • Images by Bradley Photographers

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s a horse Trainer, Kembla Grange’s Gwenda Markwell has had some good gallopers including The BMW winner, Grand Zulu, which she rates her best. Gwenda has dominated her home track of Kembla winning Premierships for more than a decade, but her more lasting effect on racing might be in the saddle.

Last Spring was successful for a lot of Jockeys that Gwenda has had an influence on. Her latest apprentices Aaron Williams and Brock Ryan had milestones of their own. Brock chalked up win 100 after just two years of riding and rode his first city winner. He had been Godolphin’s apprentice of choice in the Provincial area before a broken shoulder from a fall set him back and has been named the next Tommy Berry by Neville Layt. “With the shoulder injury, he has really been going only 18 months,” Gwenda said. “He is very good in the saddle and a natural.

He is still learning and will only become better. “Brock just needs to get away from here a couple of mornings a week to get opportunities, because the next step is to ride in the city more often. “He has been going up and working at John O’Shea’s one morning a week, which will help him toughen up.”

Her other apprentice, Aaron Williams, is sidelined after chipping an ankle just after he had a breakthrough day at the Sapphire Coast on Melbourne Cup Day, where he rode a Double on Lavington Star and Coolamine.

Aaron will return this year and look to build on his success. “I was really happy for Aaron to get that double and I thought it would really kick him along. You need to ride winners to get rides,” Gwenda said. “He is a big boy, so his weight means he doesn’t get that many chances, but he rides very well. He is a very good trackwork rider and has a good clock, which can only help in races. He just needed that confidence of a few winners and then he came off one, which was disappointing.”

But Gwenda saved special praise for Troy Phillips, who had a winner himself at Nowra on Melbourne Cup day. “It was a pretty good Melbourne Cup day for everyone at the stable. Troy has been riding work for me for 13 years and helps with all the kids and he had a winner as well.”

Gwenda has gained the reputation and record to say she can produce a good Jockey after helping to shape the early career of several of the better ones in Sydney.

Josh Parr, Kathy O’Hara and Winona Costin have all mucked out boxes at Gwenda’s stable at the back of Kembla Grange, near the mile start, and they have ridden work next to the Trainer, who continues to ride most mornings.

They learnt their trade as Apprentices at Kembla before going on to notable careers which Gwenda has a sense of pride about. Quiet by nature, she usually doesn’t take to talking about her achievements or those of others, but Victoria Derby Day at Rosehill Gardens was different.

“It was a day up there with winning a Group 1 for me. It was a different feeling because I was so proud,” Gwenda said. “I had a winner with Pomelo, which was good, but to see Kathy ride a Treble and Josh a Double on a Saturday in Sydney and to be present was very special.

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Brock Ryan unsaddles after scoring on Le Dejeuner at Kembla Grange

Aaron Williams brings Our Brown Eyed Gal back to scale after winning at Moruya

ROCHELLE ADAMS

The Darwin Turf Club 2018 Ambassador What prompted you to apply for the role of Ambassador this year?

To put it simply, I live and breathe Thoroughbred racing! I’m so passionate about the exciting atmosphere and would love to be involved in bringing the next generation onto the lawns to showcase what an experience this Carnival is.

You’ve been to plenty of races we’re sure, what do you think makes the Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Carnival so special?

The Darwin Cup Carnival is the ultimate relaxed racing experience. In the height of the Dry Season, Darwin is buzzing with its one-of-a-kind energy and bringing that vibe track side creates an atmosphere that cannot be missed.

As for visitors, who wouldn’t want to escape the depths of winter for a long weekend including bet365 Palmerston Sprint Day, the Qantas Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball and finishing it off at the Carlton Mid Darwin Cup meeting?!

Given your racing industry experience, what fresh insights will you bring to the 2018 Ambassador role?

I’m hoping this year the role of Ambassador will have more of a handson approach and along with the Darwin Turf Club, I would love to open the public eye to the often-restricted areas including the horse stalls and training barns to promote the often missed behind the scenes of this spectacular sport and event.

What excites you about this year’s Carnival of Colour theme?

Carnival of Colour means no rules! Colours, texture or patterns – dare to be different and have fun putting a unique race day outfit together.

I am especially looking forward to seeing the stand out one-off pieces created to compete in Silk Laser Clinics Fashions on the Field that will represent the Territory in the finals over Spring in Melbourne.

What do you love most about living in Darwin?

Residing between Darwin and Melbourne, along with constant travel for work commitments has allowed me to really appreciate Darwin’s small town feel, even amongst the 100,000 residents. On my ideal Darwin evening, you will find me sitting on Mindil Beach admiring the sunset, enjoying the vast variety of multi-cultural food and soaking up the atmosphere.

Do you have a favorite race industry icon?

I don’t particularly have a favourite racing icon but I admire and look up to a lot of people. Our industry can be tough, but it is full of exceptionally hard working, dedicated and passionate people.

Do you have any fashion advice for racegoers this year?

Comfortable shoes are a MUST! This is the one time we need to do ourselves a favour and choose comfort over fashion. Race days can mean a super long day on your feet and nobody wants to be that barefoot person carrying their shoes home at the end of the day!

Interesting facts: • I have a retired ‘Off The Track’ Thoroughbred called Mr. O’Postrophe who won nine races in his career including the Yea Country Cup with myself aboard. This was my all time favourite race win!

• My Grandfather was a very successful jockey in Queensland; his biggest win was the 1936 Surat Cup on a horse called Reefem.

• Last year I travelled around Europe solo for 35 days visiting 10 countries and 19 cities.

• I’m an avid snow skier; I love to get out onto the slopes when work permits.

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BODELLE FRANCIS

Paving the Way for Racing in SA At just 34-years-old Bodelle Francis is the ambitious, commercial-savvy businesswoman having already made a significant contribution to the racing industry in South Australia as Chair of the South Australian Jockey Club (SAJC).

Story by Caroline Plant • Images by Newscorp

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odelle was appointed to the board of the SAJC in 2010, and in 2017 she was appointed as Chair; the first lady to lead the SAJC in its 165-year history. She quickly made her mark, making improvements both financially and culturally with big plans in place to continue transforming the Club for the better. Shortly after being appointed as Chair, Bodelle also served in the capacity of Acting CEO for seven months while the organisation recruited for the next stages of the Club’s evolution.

woman to be elected to the Liquor Marketing Group SA in 2015.

The past year has been full of change, possibilities and many firsts for Bodelle, which has made her even more passionate and determined to continue to do great things for the future of racing at Morphettville, and all of South Australia. One of the key highlights, with the support of the previous State Government, was hosting SA’s first million-dollar races for Adelaide’s Festival of Racing with the UBET Classic and Darley Goodwood.

Coming from a rich racing background, Bodelle has always been part of the racing industry. Her parents, Wayne and Jenny Francis, are also well known in the racing game; they own Finniss Lodge Thoroughbred Racing Stables and Wayne is a Trainer in his own right. Having owned and bred Thoroughbreds herself, Bodelle truly understands what it takes to immerse yourself in a community so entrenched in history and culture.

The Festival was also a drawcard for the likes of Brazillian-born Jockey João Moreira, another first for South Australian racing. The Adelaide Festival of Racing this May is looking even bigger and better and comes off the back of an incredibly successful UBET Adelaide Cup Day – which saw the biggest crowd on track in the past three years.

With a growing list of achievements outside of racing, Bodelle has recently re-commenced with multi-national hotel group, Accor Hotels, where she spent much of her career interstate. Prior to this, she was the General Manager of the family business, the Francis Group of Companies, which owns several South Australians hotels.

Bodelle is also a Director for the International College of Hotel Management, owned by Charles Darwin University and was the first

Following the lead of interstate counterparts and investing in the future and the facility, Bodelle is also leading the SAJC with a Master Plan for its surplus land. The racing industry is so much more than just a racecourse – these tracks are also entertainment precincts.

As well as various investment opportunities, the SAJC will also be reporting the lowest Club expenditure since the 2010/2011 Season under Bodelle’s tenure.

Bodelle pictured with her mum and their horse ‘About me’.

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Fashions at t he t rack

COMPETITION SEARCHING FOR SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S MOST STYLISH RACEGOER

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1. Bordertown Cup Winner—Bri Scanlon 2. Ceduna Cup Winner—Frew-ann Halbert 3. Gawler Cup Winner—Oksana Caretti 4. Jamestown Cup Winner—Carly Young 5. Kangaroo Island Cup Winner—Brooke Seward 6. Lock Cup Winner—Demi O’Brien 7. Melbourne Cup Day at Morphettville Winner—Rose Ampt 8. Mount Gambier Cup Winner—Jodie Swaffer

9. Murray Bridge Cup Winner—Melissa Barnes 10. Naracoorte Cup Winner—Leah Habel 11. Port Lincoln Cup Winner—Chloe Carr 12. Strathalbyn Cup Winner—Rebecca Butcher 13. Balaklava Cup Winner—Marie Jeffries 14. Mindarie Halidon Cup Winner—Morgan Pfitzner 15. Streaky Bay Cup Winner—Tracey Tape www.theracessa.com.au Images courtesy Meaghan Coles Photography

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Winona Costin

Raquel Clark

Australian Female Jockey

CHAMPIONSHIPS 2018 Winona Costin triumphed at the first Sky Racing Australian Female Jockey Championship, which was held in Launceston, Tasmania on March 7th, 2018.

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Story by Sally Milbourne • Images Cultivate Productions

crystal-clear Tasmanian Summer’s day greeted Australia’s leading female jockeys at the inaugural event. The concept was put forth by TasRacing, the Championship extended the Tasmanian Summer Carnival by a week, with the timing of the initiative being an important factor as it ran on the eve of International Women’s Day, while also providing an opportunity to celebrate and promote female’s participation in Thoroughbred racing.

The evening meeting, which was held at the Launceston Turf Club under a technicolor sky as the sun set and while the lights shone, in a tough four race points-based Competition. 11 Lady Jockeys represented their various States with Winona, the NSW rider, accumulating the most points from the four races. The 23-year-old finished clear of Tasmanian ex-patriarch Raquel Clark, now based in South Australia, while Tasmanian Sigrid Carr and Queensland’s Bridget Grylls tied for third.

In her acceptance speech Winona stated, “I was thrilled when I was told that I had received an invitation to ride in the event and to take out the very first series is just fantastic, a real feather in my cap”. Showing clear grit and determination, Winona had been told at one stage of her

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career, to seek an alternative career after a spate of injuries kept her off the track for a year. “I was on top of the world early in my career, but then I had a bad fall and suffered head injuries that forced me out for a long time,” she said.

Winona won on outsider The Grey Crusader, in the third Heat, after finishing second in the opening Heat. A fifth-place finish in the final Heat, was enough to edge out Raquel.

Racing has led the way in enabling females to compete equally with males and it is a testament to some of the female trailblazers of the sport. Two such ex jockeys Robyn Clark and Diane Parish were VIP guests at the event and praised TasRacing for supporting females in racing.

“In the beginning there wasn’t even a female changing room”, said Robyn, while outlining some of the difficulties of being a female jockey 30 years ago. Diane is still involved in racing, working with well-known trainer Michael Trinder.

Winona snared the $5,000 winners cheque for her hard work. What does a female Champion do with such a prize? “I’m spending it on a designer handbag!”, she said.

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NORTHAM RACING CLUB

Community Racing – Four Generations The Avon Valley in Western Australia is proudly the home of 4 generations of women who make the wheels go around for the Spring’s favourite race days in Northam.

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ileen Elliott became involved in racing in the 70s at what was then the York Jockey Club, Western Australia’s oldest inland racecourse. Eileen’s Bar was the place where you toasted the winners and drowned the losses. Her daughter Shirley joined her in the 80s and eventually took over the reins of bar manager for the Avon Valley racecourses in the early 90s. Where there were two, soon became four with Shirley’s daughters Kym and Nicole taking up positions in the Administration of the Northam Race Club in the late 90s.

In 2015, 4 generations of the women in this family joined together for the first time, all on-course to bring the annual Gannon’s Ladies Day to life. Eileen (‘Nana’ as she is so fondly referred to by not only the family, but most of the racing industry) busily selling race books and merchandise, Shirley managing the hospitality for the day, Emily, Kym’s daughter, assisting with the Fashions of the Field, Kym working the administration and Nicole who is now the Club Manager. For Eileen to have her family all around her was wonderful, for Nicole to have her family support her was priceless.

country club at heart. Its community and the people within it are the strength of the Club.

Sadly the community farewelled Nana in March this year, at almost 90 years of age. She had served racing in the Avon Valley for over 50 years. While she didn’t achieve any great moments at the finish post, she certainly left the legacy of her family who today continue to create racing events in the Avon for the greater community to embrace.

The Northam Race Club season gets underway again this May and extends through to November. Its carnival commences in late September through October with the running of Kids Day, Ladies Day and Northam Cup. For more information see website www.northamraceclub.com or follow them on Facebook.

“I am fortunate to be doing a job I love, surrounded and supported by my family. Our feature days are a family affair, we work long hours to prepare and bring these race days together but they are worth every little argument along the way” The workers of a Club are not always recognised in racing, the people who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make the race day experience so enjoyable for everyone. From the Carpark Attendants to the President of the Club, very few escape getting their hands dirty at a small Club.

Northam might be a premier provincial Club in WA, however, it’s a little

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Harriet Tucker with the winning trophy for Cheltenham’s Foxhunters Amateur Steeplechase

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‘MAKING ALLOWANCES’

The 2018 Grand National Steeplechase at Aintree The Grand National, the world’s greatest Steeplechase, was run and won on Saturday, April 14th by Tiger Rolls, who was ridden by the oldest jockey in the race, Davy Russell, when he finished in front of the other 39 starters.

Story and Images by Debbie Burt

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few days before, the first news story on my industry’s ‘daily ‘app’ on my phone was that lady jockey, Rachael Blackmore would make her ‘National’ debut on a 50-1 shot. Nothing new there, ‘plucky girl receives National ride on an outsider’ stories have frequently appeared since Charlotte Brew became the first lady jockey to line up at Aintree’s feature race on her own Barony Fort at odds of 200-1 in 1977.

However, what is significant 41 years later, is that Rachael was Ireland’s Champion Conditional Jockey last year, the first lady to win the Title.

Although her mount Alpha Des Obeaux was not strongly fancied, he is owned by one of Ireland’s biggest owners, Gigginstown House Stud of Michael O’Leary.

In the United Kingdom (UK) and Ireland horseracing, the pace at which lady jockeys have been accepted would make an oil tanker look like a speedboat. However, following this year’s Cheltenham Festival, in which four of those 28 races were won by ladies, two Amateurs, Bridget Andrews and Harriet Tucker and two Professionals Lizzie Kelly and Katie Walsh, one of the more astute social media comments was, “They don’t need an allowance, they just need the horses.”

This is in reference to France-Galop’s decision in March last year to give a 2-kilo allowance to females riding against the males. Through to December, that allowance has contributed to a 112% increase in rides (from 2,207 to 4,691) and wins rose from 38 to 130. To date, the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) has resisted doing the same, and with three of those four Festival winners trained by jump racing’s leading trainers in Willie Mullins, Paul Nichols and Dan Skelton, you could be forgiven for thinking that there is no need to even consider it.

Equality remained a hot topic in the recent news as the continuing row over the gender pay gap confirms, something which British racing can at least hold its head high. Jockeys receive the same riding fee regardless of gender and the same goes for the stable staff, who at least have industry guidelines over pay and conditions which other Equestrian disciplines would struggle to uphold. If looking a little deeper though, the opportunities for females to ride the best horses sharply diminishes.

Following a UK survey published last year by Oxford Brookes University in partnership with Women In Racing on the representation and diversity of women in racing, the BHA is keen for change acknowledging that “females account for 12% of all licensed jockeys, but just six per cent of all rides and only one per cent of rides in our very top races”.

They also note that “in a spectator sport where 39% of people who buy tickets are ladies, compared to 20% in other sports, racing must reflect that audience diversity, if it is to thrive and grow.”

A female champion jockey, or a winner of a big race such as the Derby or the National, would go a long way to encourage that change. At January’s Horseracing Industry Conference, BHA Chief Executive Nick Rust pledged the organisation’s support into encouraging greater opportunities for female jockeys and went further saying: “I personally think in the next five years we might finally see a female champion jockey, and this would perhaps have been unthinkable ten years ago.”

Certainly, the evidence from the UK apprentice and conditional jockey

championships gives some hope. In 2005 Hayley Turner broke new ground when splitting the apprentice title with Saleem Golan, and in 2012 Amy Ryan became the first outright winner followed by Josephine Gordon in 2016. Over fences progress has been slower with only Lucy Alexander gaining the conditional championship in 2012/13.

With just 20 days until the end of this jumps season, it is impossible that Bryony Frost (currently fourth) will follow suit; Bryony has the same winners to runners percentage (16) as the title leader James Bowen, yet she has ridden 24 winners from just 146 rides compared to his 49 from 297; – almost half.

Mr Rust at the conference said, “We need to provide a suitable incentive for Trainers and Owners to properly consider female jockeys and I don’t mean a 4lb allowance. We are proud that British racing is one of the few sports where men and women can compete on equal terms. However, if female jockeys are not being given the same opportunities as the males, then this cannot be considered as equality.”

So what incentive will make the required change in attitude?

A common misconception still held is that females are by nature more fragile, despite studies to the contrary. One hopes that the widely reported win by Harriet Tucker in Cheltenham’s Foxhunters Amateur Steeplechase will go some way to dispelling that myth. Harriet injured her right shoulder a year ago when unseated in an amateurs’ race and has since had to endure it frequently dislocating; often at the most inappropriate moments, which included when going over the last fence at Cheltenham.

In an interview with The Guardian’s Chris Cook she recalled, “Normally, I can just roll it and it goes back in. It wasn’t going back in and it was really annoying me. So, in the finish you can see me rolling my shoulder back but trying to stay in rhythm with the horse.

“I’d have liked to have ridden a tidier finish, but I rode with my shoulder out and still won; I was very pleased with myself.”

Jockeys’ titles in other countries give more insight as to how female champions are made. Italy, Norway, Sweden, Australia and New Zealand have all produced ladies capable of beating men to the top of the jockeys’ leader board, but it is the comments from the New Zealandbased Lisa Allpress, which have the greatest resonance.

Speaking to James Crispe in the Thoroughbred Racing Commentary in 2015, she said: “In New Zealand, the prize money on offer has seriously declined over the last decade or so and, with this, there is not such an incentive for boys to keep their weight under control. So, more opportunities have arisen for the girls as we are generally lighter framed.

“There is also the fact that not many boys are coming up through our Pony Clubs now. We have a very competitive Pony Club and Show Circuit of jockeys come through; I competed very successfully on my ponies, which gave me a great grounding.

“In New Zealand the trainers need us, as our boys just are not as competitive as the girls. We work harder, we ride lighter and we generally have a greater affinity with horses.

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Katie Walsh riding her third Festival winner on the mare Relegate, winning the Weatherbys Champion Bumper Grade 1 for Paul McKeon and trainer Willie Mullins who saddled the first three home.

“I do realise this is not the case everywhere, but I think that, if you are good enough, the trainers will put you on. If you are not good enough, you have to work harder to improve your skills.”

A recent study, by Vanessa Cashmore through the Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries MBA at the University of Liverpool, was published in January. By analysing data over a 14-year period, the results suggest that once the quality of horses is factored in, there is essentially no difference between the performance of female or male jockeys.

In the World Rankings of the top 500 jockeys on the Flat, 16 are female and of those, 13 are based either in Australia or New Zealand. One of the Australian-based jockeys is Rachel King, who in the week prior to Cheltenham rode her first Group winner on the Flat on Lanciato. Rachel originated from the UK where she rode as an amateur and as apprentice, totalling 27 wins on the Flat and over the Jumps, in addition to becoming Champion lady jockey on Arabian horses in a five-year career.

The opportunities were just not available for her to progress and while on a holiday in Australia she decided to stay, joining Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott as an Apprentice.

Since then she has ridden 176 winners, and the chance to ride at the top level have come too, with 35 Group race rides in the last six months.

Speaking to Melbourne’s Herald-Sun Rachel said, “My original intention was to return to England and ride. But I realised there are more opportunities for the girls in Australia, so I changed my plans. I would be lucky if I had five rides in a week at home, whereas here I can sometimes have five rides in a day.”

The UK has two Training Centres for jockeys and stable staff – the British Racing School at Newmarket and the Northern Racing College in Doncaster. Recent statistics (June 2017), show that 51% of racing’s workforce are female, an increase of nine per cent since 2010. In the last academic year, almost 75% of the students at both the BRS and NRC were female.

Given that there are plenty of male jockeys described as ‘not getting the rides they deserve,’ a gender weight allowance would certainly seem an unfair introduction in the UK. But the evidence from other countries suggests that females will continue to struggle to get more opportunities until the ratio between the sexes becomes more even.

Three female jockeys rode in this year’s race, Bryony Frost who finished fifth, plus Rachael Blackmore and Katie Walsh. Katie has achieved the highest placing in the race by a female, finishing third on Seabass in 2012. Maybe 2018 can be a breakthrough year for female jump jockeys in the UK.

left: Bridget Andrews riding her first Festival winner on Mohaayed for trainer Dan Skelton in the Grade 3 Country Hurdle. middle: Harriet Tucker right: Lizzie Kelly winning the Ultima Handicap Chase on Coo Star Sivola, trained by her stepfather Nick Williams on her 10th Festival ride

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We can audit your stable’s approach to safety against Australian Standard 4801:2001, provide a full report within 5 working days and assist you to fill any ‘gaps’.

During the assessment our Consultant will inspect all existing documentation required by health and safety legislation. This includes risk assessments, policies and procedures, training records, injury reporting, and certificates concerning the safe access to, and testing of, equipment.

We offer reliable and cost effective safety solutions and advice including: • Development of policies, procedures and guidelines • Safety awareness training • Development of risk and hazard registers • Development and implementation of safety strategies • Ongoing safety support • Human resources consulting e.g. Recruitment, Learning & Development, Policy Development, Change Management etc.

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HERMIONE

Loves Racing and Golf Hermione FitzGerald was born and bred into the horse racing world in Europe.

Her father Lord John FitzGerald trained at Newmarket, England, before being approached by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum to develop the racing scene in Dubai in 1992.

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e moved to Dubai, at a time when nobody had ever heard of it! I remember my father driving my mother, brother and I through the desert to a tiny little grandstand without a blade of grass. I’m very proud of what my father achieved as a racehorse trainer by training a Royal Ascot Group winner in his first ever season, and then in Dubai with the first ever Dubai World Cup.” It was in Dubai that Hermione first picked up a golf club at Emirates Golf Club, home of the Dubai Desert Classic and the Omega Dubai Ladies Masters.

“At the time Emirates Golf Club was a green oasis in the middle of the desert, and I learnt the basics of the game at the weekends, but I really was not a child prodigy! I’m sure I spend more time chatting to my friends than listening to instructions from the pros! It was a great way to learn the game though, and I remember my first ever par. The 4th on the Majilis Course which is a par 3. I hit 7 iron, pitching wedge and then holed the 20ft putt!

Following 5 years in Dubai, the FitzGeralds moved back to Newmarket and Hermione continued to play golf, playing for her county Cambridgeshire and won numerous tournaments on the amateur circuit. A highlight was playing the JP McManus Invitational Pro-Am in Limerick, Ireland. JP is one of the biggest racehorse owners in Europe, and he is particularly passionate on jump racing. Another passion of JP’s is golf, and every five years he hosts a Pro Am in Ireland for local charities.

“Playing in the Pro-Am was a huge privilege, and I loved every minute of it.

I was lucky to play with Fred Couples and Rich Beem, and both were so encouraging of my talent. It was fun playing in front of thousands of people (The event saw 25,000 spectators) and being asked for my autograph!”

Hermione turned professional, but continued to work the majority

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of time in the horse racing industry with auction houses including Tattersalls, Goffs and Cape Thoroughbred Sales where she assisted with amongst international buyers.

“It was a great privilege to work for such well renowned companies over the world and as a first-hand witness to some of the great sales of recent times. When you are on the rostrum following the sale, and spotting the bids, and then later taking the docket for so many millions to the buyers like John Magnier, Sheikh Mohammed and others it really gives you a real sense of involvement.”

Hermione’s golf career as a professional was marred by injuries, and she had major hip surgeries in 2011 and 2012, but made it back on tour winning 3 times on the Jamega Ladies Tour, and successfully making it through to the final qualifying stages on the Ricoh British Women’s Open three years in a row.

In 2016 Hermione decided to retire from professional golf and is now based in Sydney working for OTI Sport. It’s a role that suits her skills and knowledge of the worldwide horse racing scene, as her major role for them is as a representative in Europe through the European flat racing season. Fascinating unique experiences for OTI members include racing trips and excursions to leading trainers, stables and studs as well as golfing tours to Ireland, including staying at her father’s family home Kilkea Castle which is positioned ideally for a day’s racing at the Curragh, and rounds of golf at Ireland’s famous golf courses including Mount Juliet, The K Club, Carton House and Portmarnock.

“I loved my time on tour, though it was not always easy, but it was certainly character building. It was a great way to see the world, and beautiful parts of the world and to meet interesting people from all corners. But now I am very happy to be in a position where my job allows me to live in a country that is so passionate about golf and horse racing, and as well as women’s sport in general”

NGAERE DONALD Unique Australian Artist

N

gaere Donald was born in Sydney, NSW and was encouraged to paint and draw from an early age. Working as a jillaroo throughout QLD, NSW & VIC, she continued painting and drawing, capturing the movement of horses in action. Settling in East Gippsland, Ngaere’s passion for painting and drawing has won her many awards at art shows and competitions including 1st place at AGRA (Australian Guild of Realist Artists) for her drawing ‘Wine and Action’.

Ngaere has exhibited her work in group and solo exhibitions at East Gippsland Art Gallery, Feastonart Gallery and AGRA Galleries. She is a long standing member and President of the Wilderness Coast Artists.

She is also a founding member of the Town and Country Painters, who

meet annually for an intensive fortnight of talking eating drinking and making art. More recently, she has undertaken artist in residencies in Beverly and Westonia, WA. Currently Ngaere is preparing for a major solo exhibition, ‘Drawn from Horses’ at AGRA Galleries in Camberwell. The exhibition will showcase her latest expressive paintings and drawings of horses in action.

“The movement, colour and sound of racehorses thundering down the straight has always been a favourite subject. I love the mark making and the texture of oil paint. When I see or get a feel for a subject, I just have to work on it, push it around, to draw and paint what I feel, not what I see”.

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Cruise the Seas with

AMBASSADOR Last year, as recounted here, I experienced cruising with Ambassador Travel aboard Queen Mary 2 on her first voyage to Tasmania.

H

Story by Cathryn Meredith • Images by Richard Davey & Cunard Line

aving experienced the best late summer days in Port Arthur and Hobart and the enjoyment of sailing on this remarkable ship, there was one thing I wish could have been changed, it was the length of the voyage. At only 5 nights, it was too short! This was a feeling among many of the 80-strong group, many of whom were ready for more of this alluring life at sea.

This year, the group sailing was much longer, a 13-night circumnavigation of New Zealand, beginning and ending in Sydney, although many of the Victorians chose to board early and sail up from Melbourne. On a balmy late February evening, Queen Mary 2 sailed away from a cerise illuminated Sydney Harbour Bridge and passed her cousin, P&O’s third Arcadia, also

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beautifully lit. As before, the weather did not disappoint. Although there was some swell on the way over to Milford Sound, QM2 handled it with ease. Some rain earlier in the week had ensured that Stirling Falls and other waterfalls were at their spectacular best. Calls to Dunedin, Akaroa and Wellington were followed by a rare treat, a two-day call to the seaside holiday village of Mount Maunganui, known in ship’s itineraries as Tauranga. “The Mount” as it is known to locals, features a steep 200-metrehigh mountain at the entrance to the port which allows everybody to walk around it at the waterline or ascent to the summit depending on the individual’s level of energy. These were two picture postcard days, followed by a call to New Zealand’s sub-tropical Bay of Islands.

The Windsor Suite is the second largest suite aboard Queen Mary 2. Over 100 square metres on two levels, it is highly sought after and has carried some distinguished guests including the enduring British actress and former Bond Girl, Jane Seymour OBE. Ambassador Travel were able to secure this special suite for a couple who are loyal clients and they very kindly offered to provide their suite as the venue for the group’s cocktail party as the ship sailed from Bay of Islands. Cruise Director Paul O’Loughlin was in attendance, and all the neighbouring residents of the four other duplex suites were invited, most of whom were taking QM2’s World Cruise in its 120-day entirety. One couple explained that they just did not like to fly. There were 6 butlers on hand to serve fine New Zealand wines and French Champagnes as well as tempura prawns, deep fried camembert and smoked salmon. Some in the group, decided that staying on at the party was preferable to going to the dining room!

For those who would rather a shorter journey, Ambassador Travel are also offering another 5 night trip to Tasmania from Sydney and return in March 2019, as well as a short 4 night break from Adelaide to Melbourne via Hobart in February, and believe it or not, are already booking the unique Christmas & New Year cruise from Melbourne to New Zealand and return in December 2019 featuring New Year’s Eve on Auckland Harbour and an 8-night voyage aboard QM2 from Sydney to Fremantle via Melbourne and Adelaide in March 2020.

As the ship headed back to Sydney, thoughts turned to 2019 and many have booked already for 2019. “Sydney to Happy Valley” is the name of Ambassador Travel’s 2019 group sailing aboard Queen Victoria.

Sailing for 19 nights from Sydney on 28th February and Brisbane on 2nd March, this voyage calls at Airlie Beach, Darwin, Bali and Vietnam before having an overnight stay on board before disembarking on Tuesday 19th March for a post cruise stay before attending the evening racing at Happy Valley on the Wednesday, then flying back to Australia later in the week.

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Bridge is such a sensational game that I wouldn’t mind being in jail, if I had three cellmates who were decent players and who were willing to keep the game going 24 hours a day.

Bridge is the most entertaining and intelligent card game the wit of man has so far devised.

– Warren Buffet, Business Magnate, Investor and Philanthropist

– W. Somerset Maugham, Novelist

Why people of all ages should

LEARN BRIDGE

Bridge is played by over 220 million people in the World, making it the most popular Card Game ever invented.

Story by Ron Williams

O

mar Sharif, Bill Gates, Martina Navratilova and Mike Gatting are just a few of the celebrities that are numbered among its devotees.

What is it about Bridge that inspires such passion?

Bridge is Social: It can be played at levels, ranging from a social foursome to National and International competitions. At whatever level you play, you are guaranteed to make a new network of friends!

Bridge is a game for all Ages: It is one of few competitive activities that all generations can do together, with all players having an equal chance of winning.

Bridge is good for the mind and has health benefits: Bridge is also one of the few activities to stimulate both halves of the Brain in equal measure. Playing Bridge develops logical thinking, problem solving skills, sequencing, visualization, lateral thinking and long and shortterm memory. Playing bridge regularly will keep your mind alert and recent research has suggested that it may even stave off degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

Bridge is great fun and is very exciting! If you can play Bridge

you will never be bored. It combines the best qualities of all games; the cerebral challenges of Chess, the suspense and psychology of Poker and the excitement of a competitive Football match, Bridge truly offers a unique combination of challenges and with every deal different, success depends on a combination of technique, teamwork and tactics.

Bridge is good value for money: Sessions of various standards are conducted mornings, afternoons and evenings. It requires a small outlay for each session which generally last around three hours.

Beginners can expect a warm welcome and some Bridge Clubs run specific courses for them. Seniors can enjoy free lessons in Seniors Month each Year. Anyone who has played Five Hundred or Euchre in their past will enjoy the transition to Bridge. Cruise Ships also offer Courses on board.

There are numerous Bridge Clubs in all States of Australia in their Capitals and Suburbs, as well as the Provincial and Country areas.

Players of all ages are assured of a very warm welcome. Contact your State Bridge Association or me on 0412 434 186.

How old would you be if you didn’t know how old you are?

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- Satchel Paige

www.tajvoyages.com.au | tourindia@tajvoyages.com.au | www.facebook.com/tajvoyages

AUTUMN/WINTER 2018 #30

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Winter Millinery

Hatters Millinery Supplies

CHALLENGE YOURSELF

Enter our Competition and be in the the running to win a $500 Hatters Millinery Voucher and more!

#Hattember

A Challenge To Remember!

Now at a new location 128 Victoria Rd, Rozelle

1300 HATTERS Online and in-store Quality products for your creativity

hattersmillinerysupplies.com.au

It’s time to challenge up!

Create something magical in time for the 30 days of September with the 2018 #Hattember Ccompetition with Hatters Millinery Supplies!

U

sing your imagination – and Hatters Millinery Supplies materials – create a hat, headpiece or artistic accessory that will blow us away!

This year the #Hattember challenge will give you a chance to use your creative skills - create your own hat or designer object for the chance to win some amazing prizes! The hats and accessories will be displayed for the 30 days of September in the beautiful Sydney Hat Shop Embellish® Atelier.

A percentage of funds raised are directed to the John Skipper Kelly Fund supporting Youth Scholarships for Social Purpose.

Please contact Catherine and Lily at Hatters. millinery@gmail.com for further information and an application form.

There are wonderful prizes to be won - don’t miss out!

Catherine Kelly Tea Towell www.hattersmillinerysupplies.com.au

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Ascot Hats is a Brisbane millinery label specializing in bespoke racing hats and fascinators, bridal headpieces, and custom-made headwear for gentlemen. Leading milliner; Pamela Cameron has a fashionforward focus with all hats, fascinators, and headpieces created as one-off designs.

Select ‘Shop’ to see the collections available now p 0439 872 821 e ascothats@gmail.com

www.ascothats.com.au

Winter Millinery

Dezignz by Maree

J.A.R. Millinery MeMber of the Millinery AssociAtion of AustrAliA

Modern with a touch of vintage All one only, made with love xx Bespoke design available 0401 690 912

QUEENSLAND STATE BUSINESS AWARDS - 2017 1.Winner - Australian Enterprise Award

email

Best CustoM Fit Millinery For innovation and Client Care - Qld

phone

dezignzbymaree@gmail.com visit

www.dezignzbymaree.com

2.Winner - Qld State Business Award 2017

Most stylish headwear Provider – exCellenCe in hat design

QUEENSLAND STATE BUSINESS AWARDS - 2018 1.Winner - Australian Enterprise Award Best BesPoke-Fit Millinery 2018 – Qld

2.Winner - Australian Excellence Awards - 2018 ForeMost exPert in Personal style oF Fashion 2018 - Qld

J.A.R Millinery specializes in custom made headwear for both ladies and gents. All pieces are in collaboration with the client to ensure requirements are met thus creating individualization of each headpiece.

J.A.R. Millinery has a ready to wear collection available for all occasions.

Click on our website gallery to view all pieces available.

From the simplest of headbands to the more elaborate headwear, the choice is yours and the sky is the limit.

With many years of hairdressing, this knowledge is combined with complimentary styling tips to all clients to achieve their race day fashion outcomes are achieved.

0417 647 366

hats@jarmillinery.com

www.jarmillinery.com

WENDY SCULLY MILLINERY Handmade. Original. Creative

Award Winning Milliner

Lisa Schaefer Millinery has now expanded from Lisa's home studio, to a shop front, Raffia & Co, 58 Main Street, Grenfell.

Please feel welcome to visit and browse, discuss a bespoke creation or express interest in millinery classes.

EMAIL:

info@lsmillinery.com.au TELEPHONE: 0488 047 376 STUDIO: Raffia & Co, 58 Main Street, Grenfell NSW 2810

www.lsmillinery.com.au

@wendyscullymillinery

0416 310 028

wendyscullymillinery@gmail.com

www.wendyscully.com AUTUMN/WINTER 2018 #30

93

On Our Bookshelf

HEALTH & NUTRITION THE MINDFUL Book BODY Reviews

By Noa Belling RRP $29.99

Available from www.rockpoolpublishing.com.au

Build Emotional Strength and Manage Stress with Body Mindfulness. Our bodies are a living expression of our minds. From the communication of emotions through facial expressions and posture to the physical manifestation of more complex psychological issues in the form of injury or sickness, the body constantly signals the presence of the mind. Noa Belling – a longtime yoga teacher and psychotherapist has worked with the body-mind connection for more than 20 years.

Noa shares her wisdom on the ways in which the mind manifests itself physically, and how to work with the body to manage stress, find emotional healing and build emotional strength.

THE ECZEMA DETOX

By Karen Fischer RRP $34.99 Available from www.exislepublishing.com.au

Eczema can be a life-long condition that seriously impacts quality of life. In Australia, we have one of the highest incidences of Eczema in the world. Australian nutritionist, Karen Fischer, knows this better than most, with the condition affecting her young daughter so badly, she set out to find a way to give her some relief. 10 years on, after much research and successfully treating hundreds of eczema sufferers, Karen is a leading expert in the field.

Her previous book, The Eczema Diet, is the bestselling Eczema book on Amazon. Now her new book, The Eczema Detox, offers the very latest information on treating a wide range of skin conditions. It includes skin-friendly recipes to tempt fussy eaters of all ages.

THE SHRINKOLOGY SOLUTION

By Dr Meg Arroll and Louise Atkinson RRP $ 19.95 Available from www.hardiegrant.com/au

In a world where we are tempted by food on every street corner, on every billboard and all over our social media, is it any wonder so many of us struggle with weight loss and sticking to diets?

What if we started thinking about the psychology of dieting and eating, rather than just the food on our plates? The Shrinkology premise is supersimple: in order to achieve lasting weight loss, you need to start addressing your emotional issues with food, rather than simply going after every fad diet. Offering an in-depth psychological quiz which will reveal which type of eater you are, and tailored life and food hacks for each type, this is the last diet book you will ever need.

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REACH YOUR GOALS

By Alana Valentine RRP Chantal Hofstee Available from www.exislepublishing.com.au

In her new book Reach Your Goals Without Stressing Out, Chantal explains how we can use our mental resources to their full potential.

Using her proven life editing techniques we can learn to ditch the bad habits that drain our energy, blur our minds and disrupt our focus. Her inspirational ideas and practical exercises show you how to break that cycle so you can achieve new personal insights and implement practical strategies for sustainable success. Essential reading for anyone who’s stressed out, burnt out or fears they soon will be! Quick and easy tools are shared in Chantal’s warm and accessible style, and can be implemented into your life now.

INTEGRATE

By John Drury RRP $ 23.95 Available from www.booktopia.com.au

Is work-life balance in the 21st century a myth? With ever increasing workloads and responsibilities, many of us are overwhelmed trying to manage the boundaries between our professional and personal lives and often lack perspective to see how to make changes to do anything better.. In his new book, Integrate, John draws upon his own experience as well as decades of helping others, to provide a practical methodology that enables high achievers to pursue professional goals without neglecting their personal lives. It’s about integrating all the elements into a clear and workable plan that brings clarity and peace of mind. The strategies and examples included empower readers with the tools to take responsibility for their own health, define what they really want out of life, and work towards long term goals.

On Our Bookshelf

CHILDRENS BOOKS VISITING YOU

Book Reviews

By Dor Slinkard RRP $25.80 Available from http://www.booktopia.com.au and where all good books are sold.

Visiting You, is a heart-warming picture book celebrating the power of love, and how our similarities, not our differences, that matter most. Setting out to visit their loved one, a child curiously asks a fellow commuter, ‘Who are you going to visit?’, and in answer to this simple question, the child learns about the love and loss in the life of a stranger. A father who lives apart from his small daughter, a husband who has lost his wife, a granddaughter who is forgotten by her grandfather, and a mother who fears for her son’s recovery. After each conversation, the child understands that the other commuter has someone in their life that they love ‘as much as I love you’, and it is this understanding that allows the child to explore the most universal of human experiences: the power of love in the many different forms that it can take. Visiting You also explores a sense of community.

Recommended for children aged 4-8.

THE CHALK RAINBOW

By Deborah Kelly & Gwynneth Jones RRP $24.99 Available from www.www.ekbooks.org

Enter the world of a boy with autism in a story of love, trust and learning to look at life through the eyes of others.

Zane is different to other kids. He has his own made-up language. He likes to line things up. And he is frightened of things that don’t seem to bother other people — like the colour black. His father gets frustrated and angry with Zane. His mother tries hard to explain things to him. But nothing seems to work. Zane just scrunches himself up into a ball and screams. Things are looking pretty bleak for Zane and his family; that is, until Zane’s big sister starts to draw a chalk rainbow at the top of the front steps … The Chalk Rainbow explores difference and diversity through a family living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It’s also a story of unconditional love, of trust and of learning to look at the world through the eyes of others.

THE ART GARDEN

THE SUBJECT

By Brooke Strahan RRP $ 21.99 Available from www.brookestrahan.com and where all good books are sold

Bianca Beretta is an ex-RAAF Corporal with a past full of secrets. Thomas Christian is a former Victorian Police Special Operations Group Senior Sergeant, and Bianca’s latest subject.

After being discharged from the RAAF, Bianca finds herself working for a civilian company that specialises in information acquirement, know only as ‘The Agency’. The Agency however, is not all that it appears to be and Bianca’s studies reveal a hidden government agenda.

Both Bianca and Thomas find themselves tangled in a web of love, hate and deception rooted at the deepest level.

RRP $25.99

THE POPEYE MURDER A Rebecca Keith Mystery

Available from www.ekbooks.org and wherever great books are sold.

By Sandra Winter-Dewhirst $29.99

By Penny Harrison & Penelope Pratley

A whimsical story about friendship and nurturing our creative flair. Sadie wants to be a painter, just like her best friend, Tom. She loves playing with colour and finding shapes in unlikely places. But whenever Sadie picks up a paintbrush she makes a big mess. So instead, she spends her time working in the garden or playing with Tom. But, one day, Sadie gets a look at things from a different perspective — and makes a big discovery about herself and her own creativity. The Art Garden encourages children to explore different ways of expressing themselves and celebrates the importance of individuality and selfacceptance.

Recommended Age Group 4-8 years

Available from www.wakefieldpress.com.au/

Rebecca wondered if she was looking at an elaborate hoax. She wasn’t. Along with a dozen other journalists and food-industry celebrities, she had just witnessed the unveiling of the baked head of one of Adelaide’s most celebrated chefs.

The head of Leong Chew sat on a pewter platter.

The cloche had just been removed, revealing Leong Chew, clearly not at his best.

As editor of Taste, the food and wine liftout of Adelaide’s daily newspaper, Rebecca Keith has a life of long lunches and social engagements. That is, until one of the city’s most respected chefs is found murdered. ...

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Advertisers Index

Advertisers INDEX

Advertiser Page Advertiser Page Advertiser Page

A Formal Affair

35

Equine Safety Services

85

South West TAFE

16

Airport Admiralty Comfort Inn Motel

47

Fashion at the Races SA

21

Taj Voyages

91

Ambassador Travel Services

39

First Class Fleet

41

Tattersalls Club Brisbane

37

Ascot Hats

92

Harness Racing Victoria

29

Thoroughbred Breeders Qld Association

20

ASI Skincare

44

Hatters Millinery Supplies

92

TMix Magazine

67

Bathers Beachside Resort

17

Incredible India

IBC

Brazilian Beauty

36

J.A.R. Millinery

93

Victoria Racing Club

13

Brisbane Airport Hotels Group

43

Lisa Schaefer Millinery

93

Warwick Turf Club

53

Brisbane Racing Club

19

Magic Millions

Wendy Scully Millinery

93

Catanach’s Jewellers

IFC

Perri Cutten

OBC

Coffs Harbour Racing Club

57

Racing NSW

96

Darren Weir Racing

12

RSN 92.7 Radio

Darwin Turf Club

31

Sharon Lee Chapman Photography

52

Dezignz by Maree

93

Shoalhaven City Turf Club

61

Ladies in Racing Magazine

5

Toscana Wellness Bracelets

4

22, 23, 30, 50, 63, 65, 71

Cathryn Meredith - Racing

@LadiesRacing

@LadiesInRacingMagazine

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