Episode 261: Shane Dye

John Tapp Racing

Shane begins by talking about his return to NZ when Covid took hold in Asia. He pays tribute to his mother Dawn who has him at home again after many years.

The former champion jockey reflects on four Hong Kong race falls the last of which could easily have claimed his life.

He talks of his current role as professional punter on Hong Kong racing.

Shane talks of his father and grandfather who were both jockeys, and his indentureship to champion trainer Dave O’Sullivan.

He looks back on the very first of his 2000 winners and his maiden trip to Melbourne. It had quite an impact on him.

Shane remembers the offer from trainer Brian Smith that brought him to Sydney. He comments on his early reputation as a poacher of rides from fellow jockeys.

He talks of his unusual attitude to trackwork. He was very different to many other jockeys.

Shane reviews his association with a lengthy list of notable horses with special emphasis on a handful of champions.

He looks back on his controversial ride on Veandercross in the 1992 Caulfield Cup. Many say he cost the horse a win. To this day he defends the ride.

He talks of the six month ban he incurred when charged with team riding after the 1987 AJC Derby.

Shane recalls a three month suspension handed down when he was found guilty of reckless riding on a winner owned by his wife.

He looks back on his role as a TV presenter with the Nine Network.

Shane is the father of two sons from different marriages. He talks of 29 year old Nicholas and 18 year old Jack.

He outlines possible future plans.