Episode 246: Mick Dittman

We’re delighted to present a lengthy chat with one of the greatest jockeys of his generation. Mick Dittman retired from the saddle eighteen years ago after a stellar career which brought him 1700 wins including 88 Gr 1’s. He looks at a likely date for his return to Singapore where he manages the extensive  racing interests of Lim Siah Mong. The former champion jockey talks of childhood days in Rockhampton and the story behind his christian name. Mick reflects on the starting gate injury he suffered towards the end of his career. He looks back on a short stay in Macau where he had his final race ride. He explains how his new job came up. The distinguished horseman reflects on his two phase apprenticeship, and his very first winning ride.   He looks back on a few early Queensland Gr 1 wins, and a rewarding trip to Sydney in 1981 to win the first of his three Golden Slippers.   Mick clearly recalls his association with Gurner’s Lane and the Melbourne Cup win in which he defeated a racing idol. He talks of another Melbourne Cup that got away from him in 1988. He talks of his exciting partnership with the great Queensland galloper Strawberry Road. Mick talks glowingly of the horse he rates the best he ever rode. The former great jockey has a special place in his heart for the wonderful grey filly Bounding Away- his second Slipper winner. Mick changes the subject briefly to talk about his jockey’s room scuffle with another high profile jockey. He pays tribute to other topliners like Research, Sydeston, and Bint Marscay. Mick didn’t think he deserved the nickname “The Enforcer”. He pays tribute to his late wife Maureen, and the emergence of their son Luke as a jockey in Queensland. Mick talks of his second wife Anna Mae and new family- 14 year old daughter Ali McKenzie and 7 year old son Jackson 7.