Matt Stewart

Total 39 Posts

Mentally strong but physically weak, Mathew Ellerton closes the door on training for now

Mat Ellerton’s stroke when holidaying in Bali earlier this year sent a shudder through the training ranks. As he continues his recovery, he has opted to close his stables. He told Matt Stewart he doesn’t know if he’ll be back.

How Romantic Warrior rose out of Golden Sixty’s shadow to become Hong Kong’s greatest traveller

Romantic Warrior is set to surpass Golden Sixty as the highest-earning horse in history. Matt Stewart looks at how the two Hong Kong champions compare.

Savage but irresistible – Why a Sydney satellite stable makes so much sense for Victorian trainers

With Anthony and Sam Freedman having followed in the footsteps of Mick Price and Michael Kent Jr and taken out a satellite operation in Sydney, Matt Stewart examines the motivations behind the shift from state to national operations.

Te Akau’s Australian ambition is only just getting started

Te Akau has already made a major mark on Australian racing in the 18 months since setting up base at Cranbourne. But David Ellis’ Australian plan is far from realised, writes Matt Stewart.

'Kanga likes one-percenters' - The new chairman’s step-by-step plan to rebuild the Melbourne Racing Club

John Kanga went from board rebel to Melbourne Racing Club chairman in six weeks. The charismatic businessman tells Matt Stewart that having been an accidental hero to a revolution, he has a clear vision for what the club needs to do.

‘We get replaced all the time’ – The brutal reality of the jockey-owner relationship

The bond between an owner and a jockey can break in a moment and previous success is no guarantee of loyalty in a game built on strong opinions. In light of the decision to dump Declan Bates from Pride Of Jenni, Matt Stewart takes a look back at some of the biggest bust-ups.

‘The rituals are gone’ – Bruce McAvaney laments the Melbourne Cup’s lost lustre

Broadcasting legend Bruce McAvaney still believes the Melbourne Cup is racing’s greatest prize, but believes it no longer stops the nation. Matt Stewart spoke to McAvaney and trainer Richard Freedman about how the Cup has changed.
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