Episode 347: James McDonald

Great to catch up with the young jockey who’s been breaking records since his career began in NZ  in 2007. James begins by assessing the merits of Coolangatta’s win in the recent Magic Millions. He says he hasn’t yet committed to the Golden Slipper ride. He talks of the enviable choice of rides he has in the Gr 1 Lightning Stakes between Nature Strip and Home Affairs. James explains that Nature Strip has transformed from an uncontrollable “bolter” to a very tractable horse. He reviews the gelding’s Everest win. It’s obvious the champion jockey has great affection for Verry Elleegant. He talks of her memorable Melbourne Cup win and her proposed visit to Paris for the Prix de L’ Arc De Triomphe in October.  James speaks glowingly of Zaaki- purchased at an English tried horse sale and now one of Australia’s glamour horses. The jockey takes us back to his NZ childhood and admits that racing wasn’t on his radar early in life. It took some encouragement from a champion NZ jockey to change his thinking. James recalls the special day when he met his Australian racing idol. He looks back on an early stint in Ireland and the NZ Gr 1 wins to give him most pleasure. James talks about his transfer to Sydney trainer John O’Shea for the latter stages of his apprenticeship. He pays tribute to It’s A Dundeel, the pony sized Kiwi colt who got him on his way in Australia. James talks of his time as head rider for Godolphin, and his association with the much loved Hartnell. The jockey recalls the shock disqualification he incurred in 2016 over his involvement in betting activities. He says a couple of positives came out of his 18 month ban.  He looks back on The Autumn Sun’s spectacular Caulfield Guineas win- his first Gr 1 on returning from disqualification. James looks back on his one and only race ride on champion Winx. He talks about his association with Chris Waller and the way riding engagements are locked in by the big stables nowadays. McDonald responds to recent opinions expressed by legends Glen Boss and Malcolm Johnston about his standing among the all time great jockeys. He remembers Anamoe’s Sires Produce win last year- the race that gave him 50 Gr 1 wins. Of all the good horses James will ride over the upcoming Autumn carnival, three year old filly Espiona is the most talked about. She’s the winner of only two races so far, but the world appears to be her oyster. The same can be said for our special podcast guest.