Matt Stewart
Total 48 Posts
‘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.
The Valley of excitement – MVRC’s journey from despair to ambition
In less than 10 years, Moonee Valley has gone from on the brink of closure to the verge of a spectacular transformation. Matt Stewart talks to CEO Michael Browell about the battles of the past and the expectations of a brave new future.
‘I don’t grieve that it’s over’ – Nick Hall’s wild ride from Caulfield to Costa Rica and back again
Nick Hall’s view of this year's Caulfield Cup will differ from when he was twice the winning jockey. But as Matt Stewart finds out, Hall is a man who has always enjoyed a different perspective.
The land of opportunity: No longer on the fringe, Southside aims to prosper
Southside Racing is a club with ambition. It believes it can connect with Melbourne’s massive southeast growth corridor and targets 50,000 members. Matt Stewart caught up with CEO Neil Bainbridge about the one-time country clubs with metropolitan designs.
“I’ve never seen a horse whisperer like him” – The Flemington legend of John Patterson
John “Patto” Patterson, Flemington’s legendary clerk of the course, is gravely ill. Matt Stewart reflects on the remarkable racing life of a man who was the greatest horseman Bart Cummings ever knew.
Hitting the slot – Australasia’s pop-up race obsession
Slot races are changing the face of racing, pacing and chasing in Australia and New Zealand and, as Matt Stewart reports, the concept and the innovation it drives, show no sign of slowing.