Top jockey eyes taking the training reins too
TRENT SLATTER BONNIE Thomson is still at the top of her game in the saddle, but the Townsville jockey is excited for a new chapter in her racing career after applying for a dual trainer/jockey licence.
The Queensland Racing Integrity Commission has approved an amendment to the Thoroughbred Licensing Scheme which gives jockeys the ability to train horses as well.
Previous rules meant high profile dual licence holders such as Victorians Michelle Payne and Linda Meech had restrictions placed upon them riding their own horses in Queensland.
The changes came into effect on November 5 and Thomson was one of the first Townsville jockeys to apply for the dual licence.
Thomson has been a jockey for more than two decades and she felt the recent changes would give her another avenue to stay involved in the industry.
“I actually considered moving out west because they’ve got dual licences out there and then when it was brought in up here I thought, well I may as well take the opportunity,” Thomson said.
“I’ve been a jockey for 20 years now and I can’t ride forever, so it’s good to have a back-up plan.
“When I can’t ride if I’m injured or anything at least I’ve still got the training behind me.
“Peter Cullen sat the test with me so we’re the two from here that have already done it and I’d say there’ll be a couple more that’ll do it in the future.
“It gives you something to look forward to so you’ve got another interest. You’re not just riding horses, you’re learning something else all in one hit.”
Thomson already has her eye on a couple of horses to train, but said she has no plans to give up riding any time soon as one of North Queensland’s leading hoops.
“I’m probably at the prime of my career at the moment up here, I’ve been riding winners all the time and I’m pretty competitive still so I’m not going to throw it away yet,” she said.
“A few just to get me started would be all right. I’ve got family that own horses so I might be able to snaffle one of them and take over the training reins.”
Thomson will ride at Cluden Park today for the Herbert River Jockey Club meeting, which has been moved to Townsville due to maintenance at the Ingham track. MORE RACING – PAGE 44