October
DecemberBorn to train
The Hickmotts are a respected racing family throughout Australia, and I would now like to reflect on the achievements of Michael Hickmott, a young man I was privileged to meet more than four years ago at a Victoria Park race meeting.
Michael is based in Darwin and has 18 horses in work. He has trained two of the past three winners of the Darwin Cup — General Market in 2007 and Activation in 2009.
Michael is 21 years of age and was only 20 when Activation won for him this year.
The enormity of these achievements should never be underestimated by the sporting community.
It is important to mention that Michael also has a day job, as a real-estate agent. He has not only an agent’s licence but an auctioneer’s licence.
Michael is a dedicated, committed and talented young man with a strong work ethic and has had numerous winners since obtaining his trainer’s licence.
He has an incredible knowledge of the sport, including pedigrees and breeding.
An interesting anecdote relating to Michael is that he attended his first race meeting, at Wodonga, at four days of age. His father, John, trained the winner of the two-year-old race that day, Hot Lunch.
John Hickmott, a respected horseman and successful trainer based at Murray Bridge, has been very supportive of his son, encouraging Michael in every way possible.
Michael Hickmott’s extensive workload, working his horses in the early mornings every day before heading to the office, epitomises what an outstanding individual Michael is.
He deserves all the accolades, and on a personal note heartiest congratulations, Michael, on what you’ve already achieved and I wish you every success for the future.
Paradise (SA)