QUEENSLAND LIFESTYLE
Q
How has life been for you since making the move from Victoria to Queensland?
A
I remember before I left (champion jockey) Craig Williams said to me, ‘there are two types of Australians, Queenslanders and those who want to be Queenslanders’. It’s about the most sense he has ever spoken to me. It all makes sense now. It took me a little while to adjust because at Victoria there is travelling every day, trials three times a week, track work three times a week and the races are Thursday, Friday and sometimes Saturday night. It was 24/7. When I got to the Gold Coast it was a hit to the system with how much more time you have on your hands.
Q
So how do your weeks compare now? Is it better for your riding to be so busy or fresher for less?
A
I have track work twice a week, trials maybe once a week and races three to four days. You get more quality time on your hands. You are less burnt out. It probably doesn’t help your weight but I have more time with my family and go to play golf or do whatever.
Q
How have you found adjusting from the Melbourne tracks to the ones in Queensland?
A
Queensland races are run a lot more true. You need to get to your spot pretty quickly where in Melbourne it builds up more slowly and you can throw at the end. I like Queensland racing more because there is a lot more pressure than down south. You need to make your mind up pretty quick about everything in Queensland. It took me a little bit to adjust but I had the opportunities to make the most of it.