And he’s off: Race starter eyes his own finish line
In 30 years of working on the starting gates, Kerrin Price has been kicked only once.
He remembers the day well when racehorse Sir Singo kicked him in the leg.
‘‘They were having trouble getting him into the barrier,’’ Price said. ‘‘I went to help and the next thing, bang, I was on the ground. I didn’t break anything, just bruises.’’
Price will retire as the starter at Southland thoroughbred race meetings at Ascot Park on May 16. He has been in the role for 24 years and was earlier a barrier attendant for six years.
His second-to-last day on the job was at the Riverton races on Thursday, officiating on an eightrace programme.
Seven barrier attendants work with Price on race day, but when they can’t get time off work for mid-week meetings, it can be difficult finding replacements.
Price wants to reduce his workload but will retain a link with racing by doing the maintenance on the starting gates for Gallop South.
‘‘I want to get back into hunting,’’ he said. ‘‘I’ve got a [retired] thoroughbred I’ll work on and get ready for hunting next season.’’
Jockey Terry Moseley said Price’s horsemanship helped riders to get difficult-loading horses into the barrier.
‘‘He knows his job well . . . his service to the industry has been magnificent.’’
Riverton Racing Club president Mike McCurdy agreed.
‘‘The club is grateful to Kerrin for the 30 years’ service he’s given us. It’s an important role he and his staff have at race meetings.’’
Price’s last day, May 16, will also be the final thoroughbred race meeting in Southland for the 2020-21 season.
Steve Batt has been appointed the starter for next season.