Image courtesy Steve Hart Photographics - Colin Hayes and Michael Clarke were a formidable team for 8 years before Colin’s retirement.
I’ve lost count of the number of people who’ve queried the whereabouts of Michael Clarke over the last decade.
Michael retired in 2002, but actually rode the last 6 or 7 years of his career overseas. It’s a quarter of a century since M.Clarke’s name appeared in race books and form guides in Australia.
Old friends have been delighted to see him back at the races lately, to monitor the progress of his son, brilliant apprentice Michael Poy.
I’m thrilled to have Michael on the podcast this week. He talks about his son’s career, and reflects on his own wonderful years in racing.
In part 1 Michael goes back to his accidental meeting with Colin Hayes and his association with the master trainer.
He comprehensively traces his partnership with the great horse Better Loosen Up, and highlights some of his best performances.
Hope you enjoy a trip down memory lane with Michael Clarke.
(banner image courtesy Steve Hart Photographics - Better Loosen Up wins Segenhoe Stakes at Rosehill.)
Image courtesy Steve Hart Photographics - Better Loosen Up defeating Stylish Century in the 1990 Mckinnon Stakes.
Image courtesy Steve Hart Photographics - Better Loosen Up cantering to the barrier before one of his many Melbourne wins.