It was ace photographer Steve Hart who first put the idea of an annual jockeys reunion to NSW Jockeys Association CEO Tony Crisafi. When Tony decided to run with the concept, he gained immediate support from the ATC who agreed to provide a venue and to assist in the servicing of the function. The inaugural gathering took place in 2019 and was a howling success. The next two planned occasions were decimated by Covid.
This year’s attendees were lined up at the door when the Owner’s Pavilion was thrown open at Randwick on Saturday. Some of them were only marginally above their old riding weights. Others might still sneak a ride in a jumps race. There were one or two who have caught up on every lost meal from earlier days. A great day was had by all, highlighted by a trip to the Theatre Of The Horse where a guard of honour was provided by jockeys who were riding on the day. That honour was then reciprocated by the veterans.
Neil Paine leads the way through a guard of honour provided by today's leading jockeys - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.
The Rev Colin Watts offered a blessing to mark the occasion, which was followed by a minute’s silence for racing’s fallen heroes. Some of the retired riders chose to stay downstairs to catch up with old friends. Others returned to the Owners Pavilion where reminiscences continued - this time with a fervour fuelled by another drink or two. I’d like to pay tribute to one remarkable man. The elder statesman mantle on the day belonged to Cliff Clare, 92 years young and on his feet all day to meet and greet old friends. The long retired jockey was still riding in races at 62 years of age, and quit only because the phone stopped ringing.
Cliff’s distinguished career was highlighted by his 1967 Golden Slipper win on Sweet Embrace - one of his many stakes victories. He spent the early years of his career on provincial and country tracks. He was a late starter on the big stage, but quickly proved that he could more than hold his own with the best riders of his generation. He did me the honour of a brief interview during proceedings. Well done to all concerned with the organisation of a memorable day.
(Banner image - A gathering of jockeys past and present in the Theatre Of The Horse at Randwick on Saturday - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.)
Greg Ryan (left) made the trip from Dubbo to join the celebrations - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.
1Recently retired Robert Thompson chats with Cliff Clare, the elder statesman of retired Sydney jockeys - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.
Kevin Langby with Jamie De Belin, the jockey who rode Australia’s longest priced winners Anntelle and Pablo’s Pulse in the 1980s - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.
Sammy Ehman is flanked by Troy Phillips and Bill Aspros - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.
John Wade with sister Sue Skeen, Robert Pearse and Peter Miers - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.