Matt Stewart

Total 46 Posts

Stars and gripes - Canadian racing industry’s existential threat

In the same week Canadian champion Moira makes her Australian debut in the Doncaster Mile, the thoroughbred industry in her home country is facing an existential threat from the looming imposition of US tariffs.

'It’s not rocket science' - How a chance Melbourne meeting with John Messara sparked Haggas’ Sydney raids

UK trainer William Haggas once considered a permanent base in Australia and with a strike-rate in Sydney to match any local trainer, it is little wonder. On the eve of his latest chase for autumn riches, Haggas tells Matt Stewart he is ready to upset the Australian apple cart once again.

Keeping up with Annabel – The ambition driving Australia’s biggest training partnership

Annabel Neasham’s training career took off like a rocket, but the addition of partner Rob Archibald’s name on the stable’s door at the start of this season has allowed another burst of growth. Young and ambitious, the pair told Matt Stewart they have no plans to slow down.

A good bloke, a champion trainer and a huge presence – Racing mourns the loss of Mike Moroney

Mike Moroney’s passion for racing and life was unbridled. His family and friends, including leviathan owner Rupert Legh, will have to learn to live without his substantial presence after his death this week.

‘It’s all about longevity now’ - Peter Snowden no longer king of the kids

Peter Snowden has trained 17 Group 1 two-year-old winners, and he tells Matt Stewart that while the number of juveniles he trains has reduced, his approach to training is still evolving.

Train today, chopper tomorrow – Shinn has saddle and will travel, by whatever means

Blake Shinn has never been busier in his 20-year career in the saddle. Having become the first Australian jockey to reach 100 winners this season, he tells Matt Stewart that he has no plans to slow down.

From the political frying pan into the fire, Reilly steps in for the MRC

Tom Reilly’s entrance into the chief executive role at Melbourne Racing Club has been literally a baptism by fire. But as Matt Stewart highlights, the former head of Thoroughbred Breeders Australia has become used to dealing with the biggest challenges and personalities of the thoroughbred industry.
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