MV On Track 2018

ON TRACK MAGAZINE 37 Boris and Damien take up race riding, it is almost impossible to avoid becoming involved in the game. “My family was involved in racing from as long as I can remember. When I was little, I always went to the races with dad to watch. It wouldn’t matter whether he was there all day, or just for one race. I wanted to be a part of it, I loved it,” she said. Following a successful eventing career, a 14th birthday present cemented her career choice. “Mum, Wendy, and Dad organised my stablehand registration as a present, so I was able to ride at the track. I was hooked then and there,” she said. With her trainer father Glenn, and aspiring jockey brothers always on hand, the learning opportunities were endless. “They were always willing to lend me a hand. I was fortunate to be able to ride with them from a young age and I learnt so much,” said Steph. Tasmania was a regular riding destination for her brothers, and in November 2015, Steph had her first race ride at the picturesque Hobart racetrack. “I was lucky that Damien and Boris were both in the same race, so it was very special. I’d done a lot of trials down in Tassie and trainer Scott Brunton gave me my first ride on Miss It And A Bit (8th).” In a special twist, it was that same horse that gave Steph her first city winner in July 2017. Most jockeys say they can’t achieve successes without a great support network. For Steph, that network is as close as they come. “My dad is one of my biggest influences. He’s the first one I call if I’ve had some success or if something goes wrong. He taught me how to ride and ride work. He’s the reason I am where I am today,” she says. Then there are also some of her colleagues that play a part in her development. “Nikita Beriman has been a huge support for me and a big influence on my career. One jockey I watch more than others is Mark Zahra. He rides really patiently and certainly can get the best out of his runners,” she said. After spending some time with Victorian trainer Mick Kent, Steph is relishing the opportunity to ride for her dad again, where she is apprenticed. “I love riding for dad, especially winners. I know how hard he works, so it’s a great experience. He loves his horses and I was a part of that growing up, so being able to ride for him now regardless is amazing,” Steph said. After only a couple of years in the saddle, Steph has had quite a rapid rise in the ranks and has developed an incredible affection for The Valley. “I just love the track and love the way it races. I really like the shape and have always been a fan of shorter straights. I think patience is a big key on a track like The Valley and how it plays at the time. The atmosphere is always amazing at The Valley, especially on a Friday night. This season was just terrific. I was lucky to get a lot of great rides and get some really good results,” said Steph. Steph Thornton with brothers Damien (L) and Boris (R)