Sunday’s meeting at Tapeta Park may be another standard meeting for some, but this is not the case for Devonport-based apprentice Raquel Clark as it marks the start of her new career in the saddle.
Clark will debut aboard former Victorian gelding Rueason, for her master Barry Campbell in Race 5 the StrideMASTER @ Tasracing.com.au Benchmark 62 Hcp over 1350m.
Rueason, a seven-year-old gelding by Estambul (ARG), is having his first Tasmanian start having previously been prepared in Victoria by Chris Diplock, but is a horse Clark knows well having regularly partnered him in track work since his arrival.
“When he arrived he was a bit difficult, but he has adapted well since and has become a nice horse to work with” Clark said.
Although only starting her indentures in January, Clark has had a broad range of experience around the industry and in the saddle.
Starting out in rodeo at a young age, Clark travelled around the state and mainland Australia on the rodeo scene before moving onto breaking horses. Initially with highly respected breaker Alan Wyllie and later for her brother, Longford-based trainer Dylan Clark.
Whilst based at Longford Clark rode freelance trackwork for many trainers, as well as performing ground work around the stables, before ultimately making the decision to pursue a career in the saddle at Campbell’s Ensign Lodge.
“I am really thankful for what Barry has done for me. I get along really well with him and the team and he has given me a great opportunity” she said.
Clark also credits her brother Dylan and returning jockey Kelvin Sanderson as the biggest influences on her riding, thus far.
Sanderson, who provides assistance as a mentor for many of the state’s apprentices, spoke highly of Clark’s dedication.
“She has come a long way in a very short period of time” said Sanderson.
“She will come out to my place four times a week just to ride the mechanical horse.”
Clark will have to wait to midway through the nine race program before being legged up officially for the first time, but will sure have a crowd when she does so, with a bus load of rodeo girls, family and friends making the journey from her home town of Penguin and around the state.
By Blayne Hudson