Episode 310: Gary Willetts

Great to catch up with one of the elite jockeys of the 70’s and 80’s. Gary admits he didn’t want to come to Australia in 1974 when offered the ride on Battle Heights. He says the NZ jockeys premiership was his priority. The former ace rider talks of his venture in the hotel business after a career ending race fall. He talks of the injury toll from the fateful fall at Yarra Glen. Gary takes us back to childhood days in Auckland when he would go to the races with his parents. He reflects on work experience in the stable of leading trainer Fred Smith who later indentured him. Gary looks back on his first winner Silver Lad. The horse started at cricket score odds. He remembers his chance meeting at the races with the young lady from Matamata destined to become his wife. The Willetts are approaching 56 years of marriage. The veteran horseman has never forgotten the horse who changed his life. He takes us through the remarkable career of an iron gelding called Battle Heights. Gary was stable jockey for Bon Hoysted when a precocious chestnut son of Manihi arrived in the stable. He remembers Manikato’s quirky early habits and takes us through the amazing career of a powerhouse sprinter. He reflects on the training genius of Bob Hoysted. Willetts pays tribute to several other topliners he was fortunate enough to ride beginning with Rose Of Kingston who became the first filly in 38 years to win the AJC Derby. This was my first interview with Gary Willetts in many years. It was a treat to catch up with a true gentleman of the turf.