TRQ Spring 2010

TRQ The Races Quarterly South Australia

news

Spring 2010

Wonder Woman Libby Hopwood

Clare Cup

spring carnival

best of the

Westfield Fashion spring tips

subscribe &

WIN!

2 | Spring 2010

contents

THERE’S NOTHING LIKE A NIGHT AT

THE STAMFORD

EVERYDAY ESCAPE PACKAGE from

$

210

* per night

Package includes luxury overnight accommodation, full buffet breakfast for two in The Promenade Restaurant and complimentary valet parking. *Terms and conditions apply. Offer valid until 30 November 2010, subject to availability.

Reservations: 1800 500 175 or visit www.stamford.com.au

Moseley Square, Glenelg, SA 5045 Phone 08 8376 1222

contents

The Races Quarterly |

3

Contents what’s inside 4. News From the Races Spring is finally upon us!

In the world of racing this means big things are ahead.

In this edition of TRQ we feature the State’s best racing events from September through to December.

From the Gawler Cup at the club’s newly redeveloped facilities, the ever-popular Murray Bridge Cup and Christmas twilight racing across SA, you’re bound to find an event that fits your definition of a great day at The Races.

At this time of year, Spring Racing Carnival is the talk of the town and TRQ has all the details. We’ve covered everything including hospitality options, where to stay and thanks to Westfield, the most important part – fashion!

We also bring you the latest news, prizes, calendar of events, social snaps and a run-down of last season’s highlights. We chat to award-winning apprentice jockey Libby Hopwood about her path to the top and bring you our regular Q&A from racing expert Sam Hayes.

Enjoy the read.

Anna Falkiner Marketing Manager, Thoroughbred Racing SA

10.

8. Murray Bridge Gold Cup Release your inner punter 10. Best of Spring Carnival in Adelaide 12. Subscribe and WIN A night for two at the Stanford Grand Glenelg 14. Gawler Cup Wrap Up 16. Clare Cup 18. Christmas Twilight Events From country, hills and city 21. Winter Social Scene Around the tracks

21.

24. Westfield Fashion Spread What to wear this season 26. Calendar of Events 2010/2011 season 28. Wonder Woman Libby Hopwood 30. Did you know?

With Sam Hayes

24.

28.

news

4 | Spring 2010

nefrowmsthe races Sunday 10th October

Be part of

” z iz F & n u F , n io h “Fas for all your Spring Fashion and wedding needs

A

s the sunny days make a comeback for spring so too do the brides looking for their ultimate wedding destination.

/

EM A N U EL EB ri de

This year the Gawler and Barossa Jockey Club together with iconic South Australian designer Liza Emanuele will play host to “Fashion, Fun & Fizz” – a free ladies day featuring all your fashion and bridal needs on Sunday 10 October at the region’s premier reception venue.

Tour the new grounds and Terrace Function Centre and enjoy a fashion parade with Liza Emanuele’s latest designs, styling tips, complimentary wine and canapés from Dine Catering, as well as Simply Elegant table settings and décor displays.

Everyone who attends will also be in the running for some amazing prizes including a wedding ceremony package and a $500 Liza Emanuele boutique voucher.

For more details or to register your place at this special event, phone Linda on 8522 1801 or email sales@ gawlerjockeyclub.com.au

news

The Races Quarterly |

Roxby Downs Outback Cup worth the Trek The three day carnival kicked off with a ladies night on Thursday and the Cup Dinner on Friday followed by an exciting day of racing on Saturday.

R

The annual ‘Ms Outback’ Fashions on the Field competition was hotly contested, with a significant number of racegoers taking advantage of the event to show off some of the season’s hottest looks.

Despite Roxby’s distance from Adelaide, the Cup attracted more than 2000 guests – many whom travelled all the way from the “big smoke” to be a part of the fun.

And even when the storm did blow in later in the day, there was no stopping the crowd who continued the party well into the night at the Roxby Downs Club to the sounds of party band ‘Yes means No’.

ace-goers made the trek to South Australia’s most remote race meeting on August 14 – the Roxby Downs Outback Cup.

The weekend’s festivities ended quietly on Sunday morning where everyone was invited back to the track for the Recovery Egg and Bacon Breaky.

Thoroughbred Racing SA acknowledges the sport’s best

O

n Sunday 22 August, guests arrived in their Sunday best at Allan Scott Park Morphettville to acknowledge the sport’s finest past and present performers, at the 2010 Industry Awards and Hall of Fame induction.

Rising star Libby Hopwood was a stand-out performer, taking home three awards for Apprentice of the Year in the categories of Country, Metropolitan and State.

Mark Kavanagh earned the title of Metropolitan and South Australian Trainer of the Year and was another noteworthy victor amongst the long list of award winners.

Themed the ‘History of Racing’, attendees were treated to memorabilia displays over a three course dinner hosted by TV presenter Mark Aiston.

Other awards included South Australian Jockey of the Year Simon Price and South Australian

Champion Racehorse of the Year Majestic Magic. For a full rundown of winners, click here.

The event also incorporated the first Hall of Fame induction since 2007 with four new inductees welcomed into the elite group.

5

6 | Spring 2010

news

ireland vs Australia

Jockey Challenge

O

A

s always, the Ireland v Australia Jockey Challenge was a major highlight at this year’s Irish Race Day and the source of friendly crowd rivalries.

For almost 25 years, four jockeys from each country have travelled between Australia and Ireland to put their national pride on the line over a series of races culminating this year at Allan

Scott Park for two remaining hurdle and steeple races on Irish Race Day. It’s the 24th time the lads from Ireland have visited our shores for the event, and with their impressive record of 21 wins to our 12, it’s no wonder they keep coming back. While the Aussies put up a gallant fight winning two of the five faces, it wasn’t enough get them over the line. Final scores – Ireland 70.5, Australia 58.5.

ur mates at Nova decided to test out the luck of the men in green in the lead up to Irish Race Day at Allan Scott Park. The gang hand-picked four single Irish jockeys – David, Mark, Paul and Stephen – and asked listeners to vote online for their favourite bachelor. The result came down to a photo finish, but it was Stephen who won the hearts of SA’s fillies. He finished only one vote ahead of Paul, closely followed by Mark then David.

Winner

Jamestown gets a taste of the Cup

T

he Jamestown Racing Club celebrated a century of local racing history last month with a visit from the iconic 2010 Emirates Melbourne Cup in August.

Jamestown was selected by the Victoria Racing Club as a host venue to celebrate the 150th running of the Melbourne Cup due to its strong connection with legendary ‘Cummings’ horse training family.

In 1910 Jim Cummings, the father of Bart Cummings, won his first

race as a trainer at Jamestown.

The 2010 Jamestown Cup on October 2 will commemorate 100 years since that first victory.

The celebrations were marked by an exhibition ride with four horses and jockeys sporting the legendary registered Cummings racing colours, followed by a community BBQ.

news

The Races SA goes social

Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

T

he Races SA has now launched a Facebook page featuring upcoming events, videos, links to new issues of TRQ and the most up-todate racing fashions - as well as tips on where to catch our Stable Stars for great giveaways. Simply click on ‘like’ The Races SA to join.

tips about what’s on around the tracks, where to be seen and the latest prizes on offer.

For those on the run, follow ‘theracessa’ on Twitter for quick

Langhorne Creek Vignerons Day

O

n November 21, one of South Australia’s most picturesque racecourses, Strathalbyn, will play host to the Langhorne Creek Vignerons Day. Renowned Langhorne Creek wineries will set up shop to offer tastings and sales by the glass or bottle for some sophisticated fun with friends, family or clients.

This is one of the most popular Sunday racing events on the calendar and it’s easy to see why.

The Races Quarterly |

Magnificent spring weather, live music, classic country racing and children’s entertainment waits. And let’s not forget the day’s feature - local gourmet food and wine.

A range of packages and dining options are available - from fine dining with three course luncheon, to corporate rooms, marquees and reserved outdoor picnic seating. A jazz band and entertainment for the kids will keep everyone occupied between races.

click here FOR MORE INFORMATION

For spectacular racing and a relaxed country atmosphere that celebrates our best locally produced fare – all only a short drive from the city – a trip to Strathalbyn racecourse is a great way to enjoy your Sunday.

Click here to BOOK NOW!

7

8 | Spring 2010

feature

Carlton Draught

Murray Bridge Gold Cup

T

he Carlton Draught Murray Bridge Gold Cup is South Australia’s richest provincial race event and the perfect place to release your inner punter.

Located 78km from Adelaide, Murray Bridge offers gourmet food and entertainment to make this event a five-star destination for colleagues and friends alike.

Indulgence Luncheon where an opulent gourmet feast awaits.

There’s also a chance to win a return helicopter flight for you and your friends from Adelaide to the Cup just by booking a race day package for four or more.

Hosted by Nova’s Fitzy, sporting enthusiasts should check out the Clubroom Pavilion.

Alternatively, we recommend the Carlton Draught Marquee that includes a three course lunch, guest MC and quality beverage package.

Finally, Melbourne Cup winning jockey John Letts will host the festivities in the Salinger

There’s nothing like A CLIFFhanger.

CARLTON DRAUGHT Murray Bridge Gold Cup 13th October 2010, Murray Bridge Racing Club racingmurraybridge.com

WHEN & WHERE

ber, 2010 13th Octo ridge Murray B lub Racing C

feature

The Races Quarterly |

how to get there

click here FOR MORE INFORMATION

Murray Bridge is only an hour up the South Eastern Freeway from Adelaide, but if you don’t fancy driving, organising a bus with your friends is another great option. Click here for Lofty Coaches.

where to stay Built in 1918, the Balcony on Sixth Lodge takes pride of place in the heart of Murray Bridge. The heritage listed building boasts an array of fully upgraded and luxuriously appointed accommodation options. During your trip to The Races, a night in one of ‘the Balcony’s’ Astral Executive self contained Apartments or Queen Premium Rooms will ensure you’re treated to total comfort and personalised service .

Book online today at balconyonsixth.com.au for the best value, up to the minute rates.

What else to do

Only 14km outside of Murray Bridge, the Monarto Zoo is a favourite attraction for people of all ages. The 1,000 hectare open air sanctuary is home to a selection of the most exotic creatures and plants from around the globe.

And let’s not forget that Murray Bridge is the home of river sports. Renting a house boat, canoeing and water skiing are all great ways to soak up the spring sunshine.

9

10 | Spring 2010

feature

Spring Carnival in Adelaide

M

ake the most of this year’s Spring Racing Carnival at Allan Scott Park, Morphettville Racecourse.

Don’t travel across the border when all the action and glamour of the country’s biggest and most prestigious race events is at your doorstep.

Between the Caulfield Cup Day on October 16 and the VRC

Crown Oaks Day on November 4, the South Australian Jockey Club (SAJC) will ensure you wine, dine and hopefully win your way through Spring Racing Carnival. Featuring some of the biggest and tastiest luncheons in town, glamorous folk and round-the-clock coverage, it is the ideal setting to watch some of the world’s finest thoroughbreds in action.

You might consider gathering the girls for fashion-famous Derby Day, or perhaps you’re purely horse focused. Whatever you like about racing, the SAJC has a hospitality package to suit.

And the race that stops a nation is no exception. Melbourne Cup packages include everything

click here FOR MORE INFORMATION

from trackside picnic sites, private room facilities and derby marquees to high-end comfort in the Tapestry and Panasonic Pavilions – all with access to live racing both on-course and interstate.

Add these dates to your diary: • Sat 16 Oct – Caulfield Cup Day • Sat 23 Oct – Cox Plate Day • Sat 30 Oct – VRC Derby Day • Tue 2 Nov -– Melbourne Cup Day • Thu 4 Nov – VRC Oaks Day

There’s nothing like a good field at springtime.

spring racing carnival 16th AUG - 4th NOV 2010 Allan Scott Park, Morphettville sajc.com.au

feature WHEN & WHERE 010

4th Nov, 2 16th Oct tt Park, Allan Sco ville Morphett

11

where to stay The Stamford Grand Adelaide is offering Spring Racing enthusiasts the chance to make their experience even more memorable with the Stamford’s Everyday Escape Package. includes: • overnight accommodation, • complimentary valet parking • full buffet breakfast for two in the Promenade Restaurant.

ellejphotograp

A perfect complement to a day at The Races, a night of luxury at the Stamford Grand with views of beautiful Glenelg Beach.

hy.com.au

Become an SAJC Young Member

mbershi

p Departm

ent,

g this sprin

y with your

If not, the

by a Board

, ars

MEMB

ERSHI

P APP L I C AT

ION

ellejphotography.

South Australian Jockey Club “join anytime” 12 month rolling Membership SAJC Membership and its benefits have changed this year - a Young Member aged between 18 and 35 costs only $156. Price includes: • A complimentary Member’s Guest Card.

• FREE entry to all race meetings at Allan Scott Park Morphettville.

• Reduced prices for you and a guest to feature race event areas such as ‘The Playground’ and ‘Nova Stables’.

• Complimentary car parking.

d.

or on raceda

y Club.

The Races Quarterly |

com.au

Become a Member and refer a friend, to receive a $100 SAJC credit and bonus two months FREE. So what are you waiting for? Spring Racing Carnival is nearly here. Join today and start earning SAJC credit to redeem at the track.

win

12 | Spring 2010

Subscribe to TRQ for your chance to

WIN ion Subscript

is free.

A night for two at the Stamford Grand Glenelg, South Australia.

TH ER E’ S NO TH IN G LI KE A NI GH T

T H E S TA M F O R AT D

Four tickets to the races of your choice: • Clare Cup • Spring Carnival in Adelaide, Caulfield Cup Day • Kalangadoo Cup

EVERYDAY ESCAP E PACKAGE

210

$

* from per night Package includes luxury overnight acco mmodation, full buffe in The Promenade t breakfast for two Restaurant and comp limentary valet park *Terms and conditi ing. ons apply. Offer valid

Reservations: 180

until 30 November

0 500 175 or visit

2010, subject to availab

ility.

www.stamford.com

.au

Moseley Square, Glen elg, SA 5045 Phone 08 8376 1222

Previous winners who were treated to a day at the Gawler Cup were Paul Cameron and Kevin McCarthy.

“I’m a bottle blonde and proud of it.”

www.peterlehmannwines.com

MARTINS6884_TRQ

Fun. Refreshing. Easy on the palate. Australia’s most beautiful wine?

14 | Spring 2010

feature

Barrels of fun

R

acegoers and fashionistas alike united on Sunday 12 September for the first Gawler Cup to be held at the Gawler & Barossa Jockey Club’s $13million redeveloped racecourse and facilities.

at Gawler

favourite designer, Liza Emanuele, was special guest judge of the hotly contested Fashion on the Field competition with Network Ten’s Nicki Barnet running the entrants through their paces.

The Terrace Function Centre was the place to be with VIPs and sponsors enjoying a three course meal by Dine Catering, while marquees and picnic sites were popular choices on the lawn.

The ‘People’s Champ’, eight-time Group 1 winner Apache Cat was a star attraction, leading the field on to the track, but it was the action on the sidelines that had the crowd tipping their favourites in the fashion stakes. Adelaide’s

graphy Bronwen Healy Photo

There’s nothing like having barrels of fun.

Gawler Cup 12th September 2010 Gawler & Barossa Jockey Club gawlerjockeyclub.com.au

feature

The Races Quarterly |

15

16 | Spring 2010

Taminga Hotel

feature

Clare Cup

S

outh Australia’s Clare Valley is a worthwhile destination at any time of the year, but to see it at its best you really can’t go past the Taminga Hotel Clare Cup on November 28.

Combining the thrills of Thoroughbred Racing with local treats and entertainment, the Clare Cup should be on everyone’s calendar. The Clare Valley Racing Club’s pristine course is nestled amongst a patchwork of vineyards and farming land and at this time of year, the weather cannot be faulted.

day and live entertainment from local talent Brigette Mulholland.

Trackside Seating with entry to the course and access to a private bar is another option. For something in between, Pavilion Dining provides air-conditioned comfort and your choice of platters or menu.

South Australia’s top racing talents are set to steal the show, but if you’re bringing the family along, there’s plenty to occupy the youngsters with face painting, colouring competitions and a visit from Santa.

For those who enjoy their racing in luxury, the Gold Marquee has you covered. You’ll sit trackside with exclusive VIP tent access while sampling world-class wines, gourmet platters throughout the

There’s nothing like winning by a nose

CLARE VaLLEY CUP 28th NOVEMBER 2010 Clare Valley Racing Club theracessa.com.au

click here FOR MORE INFORMATION

For the truly adventurous, the Club is holding a competition for those who manage to incorporate a Christmas decoration element into their outfit – with exciting prizes for the most creative attire.

feature WHEN & WHERE 10

where to stay

ember, 20 28th Nov ey Clare Vall lub Racing C

Clare is famous for its quaint accommodation options.

Voted the Clare Valley’s best Luxury Bed & Breakfast two years running, the Brice Hill Country Lodge is ideal for a couple’s long weekend.

The Riesling Trail and Clare Valley Cottages is another award-winning option. Situated in a beautiful garden setting it’s the perfect place to recharge.

Alternatively, the Clare Country Club offers a variety of room choices and outdoor activities. It’s a fantastic place to stay for a round of gold, a hit of tennis, a dip in the pool and a luxurious evening in your private spa room.

What else to do

Favoured by wine lovers - the Clare Valley is a place made for romance with its collection of beautiful B&Bs, the Riesling Trail for strolling or cycling, gourmet delights and some of Australia’s best wineries.

Just take your pick!

The Races Quarterly |

where to eat The Taminga Hotel is a regional favourite, known for its great menu and impeccable service. Enjoy the hospitality of a country pub with a touch of style.

Wild Saffron in the main street of Clare is another alternative. They’ll serve up a great gourmet lunch and the best coffee in town.

17

18 | Spring 2010

feature

Christmas Twilight Races Get into the Christmas spirit this year k at one of the State’s twilight events. OTwakilbian ght ambier Twil Oakbank & MOUNt G

W

hile often associated with chilly Easter mornings, Oakbank Racing Club has added another must-do event to its annual calendar with the introduction of twilight racing.

So swap your boots and scarves for summer dresses and shorts and discover a new way of enjoying the festive season.

You’re guaranteed a summer evening well-spent.

If you’re headed south for the summer, The Limestone Coast will light up the sky with its own spin on twilight racing.

ight

Races

10 ember, 20 10th Dec k n a Oakb lub Racing C

Mount Gambier Racing Club recently earned provincial status and now has more prize money on offer and better racing than ever before. Whether you’re a local or looking escape hectic pre-Christmas city life, Mount Gambier’s got you covered. With Father Christmas set to make a special appearance for the young ones, the Mount Gambier Christmas Twilight Race Meeting has something for everyone.

For a complete list of packages available at Oakbank and Mount Gambier, browse the following links to find the best option for you and your friends.

Mount Gambier Twilight Races

3rd Decembe r, 2010 Mount Gambi er Racing Club

There’s nothing like a dark horse.

SA Christmas Twilight races 3rd - 17th December 2010 theracessa.com.au

feature

Christmas Twil

park Morphettv ight at Allan scott

19

ille Racecourse Christmas @ ASP twilight ville Morphett

I

f you’re staying in town but looking for something a little different to the standard Christmas knock-off drinks, an evening of twilight racing at Morphettville Racecourse provides the perfect change of scenery.

We all love balmy December evenings in Adelaide, so what better way to enjoy it than over a glass of bubbles, Christmas festivities and views of pristine Morphettville Racecourse as prized thoroughbreds fly past.

The SAJC is holding twilight meets throughout the week leading up to Christmas.

The Races Quarterly |

ber, 2010 17th Decem ralian South Aust b C Jockey lu

Book your Adelaide Twilight packages online Choose between everything from trackside picnic sites and the Twilight Party, to the Diva Lounge, Champagne Gardens and much more.

20 | Spring 2010

at the races

WINTER

social scene around the tracks utb Roxby Downs O

ack Cup

at the races

The Races Quarterly |

click here to vote for your favourite photos

Port Augusta C

Irish race day

up

21

22 | Spring 2010

at the races

WINTER

social scene around the tracks Balaklava Cup

at the races

Industry Awards & Hall of Fame Induction

2010

The Races Quarterly |

click here to vote for your favourite photos

23

24 | Autumn 2010

fashion

spring fashion le St With Daniel

W

ith Spring upon us and the racing calendar packed full, it can be a challenge finding something to wear without breaking the bank, but recycling outfits is a cinch, says Westfield stylist Danielle Strong.

Whether it’s the Murray Bridge Cup or Melbourne Cup Day at Morphettville Racecourse, Danielle says this season’s hottest accessories make it easy to create new looks from a few key garments.

“With all the different race days it can get expensive buying a new dress every time, so keep the dress simple and change up the accessories,” she says.

“Try cinching in the waist with different style belts and buy statement pieces of jewellery.

“A large necklace is a great way to change the look of your little black dress.”

Danielle says fascinators are a staple at the races and for those on a budget, most fabric shops have all the pieces you need to make your own. But don’t be afraid to change it up a bit either.

“Trilby or Panama hats are not just reserved for men - they are a great option instead of a fascinator,” she says.

“Keep it simple in black and white or if you want a more feminine touch, clip a flower to the side of the hat band.”

Danielle says lace is also big this season, but the races are generally about colour, so bold, digital prints are a great option.

And in terms of knowing how to dress appropriately for each event, Danielle says Spring Carnival is the time to splurge.

“Think of Melbourne Cup Day as the Academy Awards of the races,” she says “This is the day you go all out with fashion and statement headpieces - practicality goes out the window.

“You want to stand out from the crowd, but be mindful it’s not for the wrong reasons. If you have an over-the-top fascinator, keep your dress simple and always remember to dress for your body shape.”

As for the local races, where the weather during spring can still be unpredictable, Danielle says simple but smart is the way to go.

“You can afford to be a bit more practical in the way you dress,” she says.

“There is nothing worse than being in a cocktail dress in mud and pouring rain. A simple tailored blazer can finish off your look and you don’t risk freezing

rong

while waiting for a taxi!”

With so many brands available at Westfield Marion, Danielle says it’s easy to create new looks and a signature style on any budget.

Wearing gloves to the races is a tradition from the days when men opened car doors for ladies.

Danielle recommends reviving the trend with a pair of leather or lace gloves.

“Fingerless is a great option and allows you to still eat and apply lip gloss!” she says.

Bags are another alternative.

“You can count on clutches dominating the races, but some people need more than a lipstick and keys to survive five hours of entertainment.”

“Carry your beauty essentials in an oversize tote in a bold colour.”

Regardless of the event, however, Danielle says the same footwear rules apply to all.

“If you can’t bear the thought of wearing stiletto heels all day, opt for a great wooden or raffia wedge,” she says.

“Never wear flats!”

For more inspiration on what to wear to this year’s Spring Racing Carnival, Westfield Marion is holding Spring Fashion Parades on 30 September at 11am, 1.30pm, 6pm & 7.30pm.

fashion

“ Think of

The Races Quarterly |

Melbourne Cup Day as the Academy Awards of the races.”

25

26 | Spring 2010

events

2010-2011 events SEPTEMBER

19.

Mindarie-Halidon Cup Mindarie-Halidon Racing Club | Sun 19th Sep 2010

OCTOBER

2.

13.

Jamestown Cup

Murray Bridge Gold Cup

Jamestown Racing Club | Sat 2nd Oct 2010

Murray Bridge Racing Club | Wed 13th Oct 2010

16.

23.

(Caulfield Cup)

(Cox Plate)

South Australian Jockey Club | Sat 16th Oct 2010

South Australian Jockey Club | Sat 23rd Oct 2010

Spring Carnival in Adelaide

30.

Spring Carnival in Adelaide (VRC Derby Day) South Australian Jockey Club | Sat 30th Oct 2010

21.

NOVEMBER

Spring Carnival in Adelaide

2.

4.

Spring Carnival in Adelaide

Spring Carnival in Adelaide (Ladies Day)

Kalangadoo Cup

South Australian Jockey Club | Tue 2nd Nov 2010

South Australian Jockey Club | Thu 4th Nov 2010

Penola Racing Club | Sun 14th Nov 2010

(Melbourne Cup Day)

28.

DECEMBER

14.

3.

Langhorne Creek Vignerons’ Day

Clare Valley Cup

Mount Gambier Twilight Races

Strathalbyn Racing Club | Sun 21st Nov 2010

Clare Valley Racing Club | Sun 28th Nov 2010

Mount Gambier Racing Club | Fri 3rd Dec 2010

5.

10.

T&R Christmas Cup

Oakbank Twilight

Murray Bridge Racing Club | Sun 5th Dec 2010

Oakbank Racing Club | Fri 10th Dec 2010

12.

Bordertown Cup Bordertown Racing Club | Sun 12th Dec 2010

events

The Races Quarterly |

2011 Januar

15.

y

17.

26.

Christmas Twilight Adelaide

Boxing Day Family Races

Ceduna Cup

South Australian Jockey Club | Sun 26th Dec 2010

Ceduna Racing Club | Sat 15th Jan 2011

South Australian Jockey Club | Fri 17th Dec 2010

FEBRUARY

13.

20.

Strathalbyn Cup Day

Naracoorte Cup

Kangaroo Island Cup

Strathalbyn Racing Club | Sun 16th Jan 2011

Naracoorte Racing Club | Sun 13th Feb 2011

Kangaroo Island Racing Club | Sun 20th Feb 2011

16.

MARCH

4.

14.

Lock Cup

Port Lincoln Cup

Adelaide Cup

Lock Racing Club | Sun 20th Feb 2011

Port Lincoln Racing Club | Fri 4th Mar 2011

South Australian Jockey Club | Mon 14th Mar 2011

20.

20.

Kimba Cup Kimba Racing Club racing at Port Lincoln | Sun 20th Mar 2011

26.

APRIL

2.

23. 25.

Penong Cup

Streaky Bay Cup

Oakbank Easter Races

Penong Racing Club | Sat 26th Mar 2011

Streaky Bay Racing Club | Sat 2nd Apr 2011

Oakbank Racing Club | Sat 23rd & Mon 25th Apr 2011

24.

26.

Clare Easter Races

Penola Cup

Clare Racing Club | Sun 24th Apr 2011

Penola Racing Club | Tue 26th Apr 2011

27

28 | Spring 2010

feature

WonderWoman

Libby Hopwood

O

vernight success is something most people only dream about, but Libby Hopwood has come about as close as one could get, transitioning from uni student to champion rider in less than four years.

in Mount Gambier. She took the position to save money for an Archaeology and Forensic Science degree in Adelaide, and although the then-20-year old had grown up on farms with horses, racing was never part of the plan.

As the number one apprentice jockey in South Australia - with her sights now firmly set on taking out this year’s senior Adelaide Jockey’s Premiership - 23-year old Libby is a formidable competitor and the woman to beat.

“When I took the job I really had no interest apart from trying to earn money.”

“This will be my last year as an apprentice and an opportunity to prove that I’m ready to go. I don’t think an apprentice has ever won the senior premiership in South Australia,” she said.

But Libby has already come mighty close. Last season she finished third overall after leading the entire series up until the final month.

“It was a big buzz to be up there in the premiership standings,” she said.

Libby talks about her riding career like a seasoned pro, but really she has it all ahead of her. It’s incredible to think that not long ago, Libby was working as a stable hand for Michael O’Leary

“I’ve never had much to do with race horses,” she said.

Michael O’Leary clearly saw potential. One day he asked her to jump on a horse and Libby began doing slow work. It wasn’t long until he offered her an apprenticeship.

“Within six months I was doing trials and about three months after that I was racing,” Libby said.

Since that time, Libby has ridden winners across the state – at Mount Gambier, Port Lincoln and the Murta Cup. She considers her victory on ‘I’m Discreet’ at Morphettville a career highlight.

While Libby never anticipated a whirlwind rise to the pinnacle of professional riding in South Australia, she’s no less committed than those who began long before. Like all jockeys at that level, Libby makes major sacrifices for the love of racing.

A regular day starts at 3.30am and Libby is in bed by 7.30pm.

It’s a routine she endures seven days a week, with the exception of every second Sunday – unless of course she’s racing that day.

On average, she’ll race three times a week - every week.

Clearly, riding is not for the faint-hearted, regardless of gender. Libby has adjusted well to competing in a maledominated sport and doesn’t feel that gender discrimination is a problem.

“Women are getting a lot more of a go than we used to,” she said.

“Occasionally you’ll hear a comment like ‘this horse is too strong for a girl’, but I don’t feel female riders are discriminated against in South Australia.”

To have come so far in such a short while and taken the pressures of jockey life in her stride, Libby has proved she’s in it purely for the joys of riding and is a true advocate for her sport.

“I love the challenges of being a jockey,” she said.

“It’s never monotonous. You’re always trying to strive for more and do something new. No two days are the same.”

feature

“ Women are getting a lot more of a go than we used to.�

The Races Quarterly |

29

30 | Spring 2010

did you know

? w o n k did you

sam hayes

Do you have a question for Sam? Ask him here.

afraid about the races but were too Ever wanted to know more lp.

Lindsay Park Stud is here to he to ask? Sam Hayes from SA’s

I want to be a part of an ownership syndicate. What is the best way to get involved and what should I look for in a potential winner?

The best way to go about getting involved in a syndicate is to firstly speak to people you know that have involvement in horse ownership and/or the thoroughbred industry. If your knowledge is only minimal then ask as many questions as you can about the ownership process before committing to anything.

From there you have a couple of options. You can either get in touch with a syndicator or a horse trainer and have them select a horse for you to take a share in.

The percentage of ownership you can take in a horse can range anywhere from 5%-100%. A lot of syndicates are comprised of friends and family who see this as a great avenue for socialising and sharing the thrill of the racetrack.

Most horses are purchased at the yearling sales that run between January – April each year. The key things a buyer will look for when at the yearling sales are: Type (does the horse look and walk like an athlete), Pedigree (does he/she have good bloodlines), Conformation (ie. straight legs,

etc.) and Temperament (does he/ she have a good attitude).

We are seeing more and more greys on the track these days.

What are their strengths and why is there an increasing number?

Grey horses have captured hearts of the racing public through the generations. The ‘Goondiwindi Grey’ Gunsynd was one of the most popular horses in Australia during the 1970’s. In 1992 the popular grey horse Subzero won the Melbourne Cup and most recently horses like Racing To Win and Light Fantastic have kept the flag flying for the grey brigade.

Generally speaking, it is accepted that grey horses handle rain affected tracks more so than horses of a different colour.

Therefore at this time of year we might see a higher number of grey horses winning races. There is no real science behind this theory however!

At what age do race horses reach their peak?

Horses generally reach their physical maturity at 4 or 5 years of age. However, the term ‘peak’ is a relative one. Some horses might be more precocious than

others as a 2 or 3 year-old and therefore will be better placed to reach their peak performance at this age.

I want to get more involved this Spring Racing Season.

Are there any tell tale signs that a horse is going to race well on the day such as certain behaviour while warming up or before entering the gates?

Watching a horse’s behaviour in the mounting yard prior to the race can be beneficial for getting a guide on how they will run.

From here you can pick up on clues to help assess a horse’s fitness, coat and temperament.

A fit horse will not be carrying any excess weight. He or she will generally have good muscle definition and may be showing off some rib. You should also look for those horses that have a gleaming coat; an indication of good health and fitness.

Temperament is another factor that is quite transparent. Each horse has its own habits; however, normally you like to see a calm, relaxed and alert horse in the yard. Some indicators of these traits include a low head carriage, smooth walk and pricked ears.

Subscribe for free to TRQ and you could win a night for two at the Stamford Grand Glenelg or tickets to the races!

news

TRQ

Quarterly The Races

tralia South Aus

Winter 2010

p ion WRAcle Sh FAth e winner’s cir