Episode 488: Don Terry

After just 14 years of race riding Don Terry was clearly established as one of the best country based jockeys in Australia. He was approaching 700 winners when involved in a life changing race fall at Grafton. After six months in Brisbane’s Princess Alexandra Hospital he settled on the NSW north coast, and began the long road back. His achievements have been extraordinary. It’s a privilege to welcome him as a very special guest on this week’s podcast. Don talks about the way he manages his problems day by day. He says his temper is not as volatile as it once was.  Don talks about the layout of his Lennox Head home. The former outstanding jockey talks about his role as the manager of Brisbane rider Justin Stanley. He proudly describes his curiously named fishing boat. Don acknowledges the support of his loyal fishing mates and talks of the sea miles they travel to find the best location. He talks about some of the fish species they encounter. The resilient Terry enjoys nothing more than driving his car. He talks about a marathon trip to the Riverina recently to visit his elderly mother. He takes us back to childhood days on the family farm and remembers the days when he taught himself to ride. Don talks about his apprenticeship to leading Riverina trainer David Heywood. He shares clear recollections of his first winning ride at Wagga and his initial city win on an amazing old horse. Don talks of his association with Ken Callaughan and pays tribute to some special horses he got to ride for the top trainer. He recalls a Rosehill win on the day of the infamous “flag start” at Rosehill. Don looks back on some important country wins and his two SDRA premiership wins. The former jockey talks of his relocation to northern NSW and the fateful day he rode at the South Grafton Cup meeting. He describes the way the accident unfolded. Don looks back on the aftermath of the fall and his many months in the Princess Alexandra Hospital. He says he was anxious to get back into circulation and talks of his first foray into jockey management. Don remembers the surprise invitation he received to train a couple of horses. He decided to give it a go, and met with immediate success. The ever courageous Terry took part in early trials for a revolutionary concept called “robotic legs”. He takes us through the procedure involved and the side effects he encountered. Don pays tribute to daughter Laura Kate and son Lyle who are doing well in their chosen careers. This is an inspiring podcast with a very special bloke.