Mature-age apprentice Sarah Robbins was all smiles after she picked up a winning ride on Hughie on Boxing Day.
Sarah, 30, has an interesting back story as she started her jockey career in Victoria 10 years ago, later became a trainer in Alice Springs, and returned to riding three years ago.
However, this year has been particularly tough as eight months ago she and her partner Brendon Newport lost their motor home and $50,000 worth of riding gear.
Assisted by the generosity of the Queensland racing industry, the pair and their five children have got back on their feet with Sarah riding a treble at this year’s Birdsville Cup meeting.
Hughie was Sarh’s first winner in five rides since her nomadic lifestyle led to her returning to Victoria over the festive season.
“He was bloody tough,” said Sarah after Hughie scored in a photo finish the Western General Insurance Agencies BM56 Handicap (1150m).
“He was a touch slow out of the gates but picked up the bridal and travelled really well.”
An easing $5 favourite, Hughie withstood a late finishing burst from Shame On Sue ($9.50), with Miss Magoo ($8) 1-1/2 lengths away third.
Trainer Jamie Edwards said Hughie was well weighted after Sarah’s 1.5kg claim in what looked one of the easiest races the six-year-old had contested since his last win at Hamilton in August.
“He’s been up a while and is very fit, so we have not had to do a lot with him since his last run at Werribee where he drew wide in a harder race,” Jamie said.
“He got his chance today and he made the long trip Nhill worthwhile.”