We have been showcasing the stars behind the scenes that make our stable run smoothly everyday. These unsung heroes are the ones that spoil your horses day in day out and help us achieve results on the racetrack. This week we put the spotlight on Linda Williams…
How did you get into racing?
I’ve always ridden and competed horses in eventing. When I was in my early 20’s, Shaun Quigley asked if I could school his racehorses at home while he took the rest to the track, I worked for him for about 2 years whist working full time at a riding school and that was my introduction to horse racing.
How long have you worked here?
Six years.
What is your role?
My main role is to organise the horses and riders for their morning work and co-ordinate staff with treadmills, etc. l also ride a bit of dressage work on the horses as needed, as well as Raceday duties. A jack of all trades!
Who is your favourite horse past or present?
Probably my favourite horse was Sharing or Makahu Boy (pictured). I used to ride them both quite a bit, and they responded really well and seemed to enjoy their dressage work. Currently I have a soft spot for Roebling, a four year old Statue Of Liberty gelding who has had three starts so far.
What is your favourite part of the job?
My favourite part of the job would be going to the races and the dressage work I do with the horses and seeing how they benefit from it.
What is your favourite memory?
When Sharing won at Flemington back in 2018. She ran in a Benchmark 84 for the fillies and mares over 1400m and she won by two lengths. It was a great ride by Ben Allen and she really impressed me on the day.
What would you do if you weren’t working with horses?
Not sure what I would do if not with horses, although I did study Engineering and Computer Science at University.
What do you do when you’re not working?
Riding my horses at home haha! I currently have an ex racehorse that EJ used to trained Charlie Road who is coming along nicely.
What is something that you’ve learnt from EJ?
No matter what you’re doing, always look for the best way to do it.
What advice would you give to someone wanting to get into the racing industry?
Start catching up on sleep now!
Read Stable News here.