FROM BUSH TRACKS TO FAST DUCKS
Q
Where did your love of horses come from? Did you ever imagine you would be in the position you are?
A
I grew up in central west NSW where my family were uncommercial breeders but enjoyed racing horses. I traipsed around the region’s racecourses and enjoyed it. I started in the industry back in 1988 in the pedigree department with Magic Millions’ opposition, Inglis. It was a very exciting business being around thoroughbred auctions from a young age and I was part of a good team. It was a great thrill and a learning curve.
Q
Exhilarates will race in the Magic Millions 2YO Classic for Godolphin. What drew Godolphin to the horse at the 2018 yearling sale and why do you guys believe she can win?
A
She was by a champion and the most commercial stallion in the country in Snitzel. Her dam (Samaready) was a champion two-year-old. It was a case of if it looks like a duck and quacks like a duck ... fortunately for us it’s a very fast duck.
Q
What would it mean to Godolphin to win the $2 million Magic Millions 2YO Classic?
A
It’s not something I want to think about just yet. I would love for it to happen and it would be just reward for the Sheik who has agreed to come back to the Australian yearling market and support our breeders.
Q
How much is Godolphin going to spend at the yearling sales on the Gold Coast?
A
We don’t start with a budget. We try to find horses we like and hopefully we get them for what we think they are worth in a reasonable range. It would be nice to find another Exhilarates for next year or a Winx or Redzel.
* Note: Godolphin paid $625,000, $500,000 and $450,000 for their first three lots at the sales