Episode 366: Joe Pride

Great to catch up with a very switched on trainer who has sailed past the 1000 career win tally. Joe explains that he discourages owners from keeping horses who are not paying their way. He talks of his non racing family background and the early punting involvement that sparked his love of racing. Joe talks about the Psychology Degree he embarked upon at Sydney University. His parents were displeased when he quit after the first year. The trainer looks back on his invaluable four years as stable foreman for the master trainer John Size. Joe reflects on his decision to go solo when John Size accepted an offer to train in Hong Kong. He remembers his first training success at Wyong in 2001, and his initial city winner. Joe profiles Red Oog, his first elite level horse and the first of his 14 Gr 1 wins. The fifty year old has great affection for Vision And Power who came to him from Victoria with one win on his CV. He went on to win two Gr 1’s. He pays tribute to an all time favourite Terravista, winner of 11 races including 2 Gr 1’s and $2.6 million. Joe loved this horse. He acknowledges the talents of top mares Sacred Choice and Regal Cheer. Joe speaks highly of last year’s Epsom winner Private Eye and his long time association with Proven Thoroughbreds. Stockman gets a good mention. The trainer talks of another quality mare Steps In Time with whom he won the Gr 1 Coolmore Classic. Joe pays tribute to several more of his favourite horses including the remarkable Destiny’s Kiss. He won 10 stakes races with the remarkable veteran. He acknowledges a successful association with Tricolours Racing and Syndication. He pays an enormous tribute to his all time favourite Eduardo. The whole story is riveting. Joe admits he’s not a chaser of two year old talent, but he’s wrapped in one particular colt he has on the team. He concludes with a tribute to family- wife Kylie, son Brave and daughters Alice and Charlie. Racing Manager Orla Pearl also gets the nod of approval from the boss. A laid back chat with one of Sydney’s most professional trainers.