October
MarchStop it now
Dear Bossy, you’ll never, ever ride a horse of mine.
Do you think I am the only racehorse owner, or prospective owner, who feels that way? Your victory salutes not only flout the rules of racing but are reckless, irresponsible and puerile. You are 44 years of age, for God’s sake!
It’s not you I fear for, but the fearless and inexperienced apprentices who copy you.
Are you that knowledgeable about the physiology of the horse to guarantee that it won’t falter when undue pressure is mounted on its forequarters, especially when it is fatigued at the end of a race?
Your flagrant offences show arrogance and the "mug lair" attitude I have always suspected of you.
It saddens me that the results of Winning Post’s online poll on the issue — the only one I have ever voted on — indicate that I am clearly in the minority. Of course, it will only take one avoidable accident to change the thinking of others.
Your celebrations are not cute, not colourful and are plainly unprofessional. I suspect a fellow jockey caught in the backwash of one of your post-race celebrations will smack you in the eye one day. And that’s when I will celebrate.
PS: By text and email I have pledged $100 to the Jockey Assistance Program should you refrain from a victory salute in your next group race success.
Great Western (Vic)