Episode 301: Deane Lester

With apologies for a voice recovering from laryngitis, I’m delighted to welcome Deane Lester to the podcast. The highly respected form guru and broadcaster reveals how he deals with the demands of ten radio commitments a week. Dean explains that he rarely goes to the track but has the use of a home studio and all the benefits of modern technology. He takes us through the format of an average week in the life of a professional form analyst, and discusses the highs and lows of the job. Deane looks back on his childhood and the gradual emergence of the complications of spina bifida. He had his first major operation at age 18. Despite the certainty of ongoing health issues, Deane knew he wanted a future involving racehorses. He couldn’t believe his good fortune when appointed official Cranbourne track watcher for the Sporting Globe, Truth and radio 3UZ. He looks back on the way his career developed, and the media opportunities that came along. Deane recalls his days as a serious punter, and one win big enough to propel him into the property market.  Deane talks of his transition into the ranks of Melbourne’s serious form analysts, and pays tribute to his first tutor. Lester has had a successful involvement in jockey management. He talks about some of the prominent riders to seek his services over the years. Deane has had his share of luck as a racehorse owner. He remembers some of the horses to take him to the winners circle. He nominates the two horses who head his list of all time favourites. Deane acknowledges the talents of young jockey Jye McNeill who rocketed to stardom when he won the Melbourne Cup last year on Twilight Payment. Jye recently engaged the astute Lester as his full time mentor. The remarkable 52 year old pays tribute to his devoted partner Leanne. Deane gives this special lady most of the credit for getting him to the barrier ten times a week, on several radio stations around Australia.