David talks of his association with owner/breeder John Camilleri and his cousin John Cordina who still has horses in the stable. Their association began with a bonny mare called Gallant Tess.
The trainer remembers the ill conformed Centennial Park who belied his problems to win 8 races with 12 placings and $1 million in prize money.
David recalls a Gr 1 win with a horse nobody wanted. Australian Bloodstock took the gamble and purchased the horse from WA. David won the T.J.Smith with Master Of Design.
He looks back on some exciting times with Ace High who carried the John Cordina colours. The colt won a Gloaming Stks, Spring Champion Stks, Victoria Derby and was beaten a whisker in the Australian Derby. He amassed almost $2.3 million.
David is full of praise for the wonderful Criterion. He trained the stallion for the first half of his career to win a Black Opal, a Todman Stakes, Rosehill Guineas and Australian Derby. David recalls his unlucky 7th in a Cox Plate.
The Rosehill trainer looks at some handy horses currently in his stable with a view to finding a future winner.
Finally David pays tribute to his old friend Jeff Lloyd who retired last year after a stellar riding career.
(Banner image courtesy Bradley Photographers - Criterion ploughs through a Heavy 9 to win the 2014 Australian Derby.)