Unsaddling a winner in the late 1990s - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.
Shane begins by talking about his return to NZ when Covid took hold in Asia. He pays tribute to his mother Dawn who has him at home again after many years.
The former champion jockey reflects on four Hong Kong race falls the last of which could easily have claimed his life.
He talks of his current role as professional punter on Hong Kong racing.
Shane talks of his father and grandfather who were both jockeys, and his indentureship to champion trainer Dave O’Sullivan.
He looks back on the very first of his 2000 winners and his maiden trip to Melbourne. It had quite an impact on him.
Shane remembers the offer from trainer Brian Smith that brought him to Sydney. He comments on his early reputation as a poacher of rides from fellow jockeys.
He talks of his unusual attitude to trackwork. He was very different to many other jockeys.
Shane reviews his association with a lengthy list of notable horses with special emphasis on a handful of champions.
He looks back on his controversial ride on Veandercross in the 1992 Caulfield Cup. Many say he cost the horse a win. To this day he defends the ride.
He talks of the six month ban he incurred when charged with team riding after the 1987 AJC Derby.
Shane recalls a three month suspension handed down when he was found guilty of reckless riding on a winner owned by his wife.
He looks back on his role as a TV presenter with the Nine Network.
Shane is the father of two sons from different marriages. He talks of 29 year old Nicholas and 18 year old Jack.
He outlines possible future plans.
(Banner image - Shane got off Octagonal to ride Nothin’ Leica Dane to win 1995 Vic Derby. His judgement was proven correct - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.)
Shane won 13 races on Tie The Knot including 9 Gr 1s. They combined to win the 1999 Sydney Cup by an amazing 6 lengths - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.
Shane was the lucky jockey to meet Her Majesty after winning the 1992 Queen’s Cup on Aquitity - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.
Shane holds the jockey’s trophy aloft after winning the 1995 Vic Derby on Nothin’ Leica Dane - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.
Chatting with connections shortly before his departure for Hong Kong in 2000 - courtesy Steve Hart Photographics.