Episode 284: Tim Clark

John Tapp Racing

Great to catch up with one of Sydney’s most popular jockeys. Tim talks of his recent Coolmore Classic win on Queensland mare Krone- his 16th Gr 1 success.

Tim looks at his tremendous record with fillies and mares. He says he really hadn’t thought about it too much.

The jockey looks back on his country upbringing and his first apprenticeship to Peter Clancy in the Riverina.

Tim talks about the transfer of his indentures to John O’Shea at Randwick with whom he spent the last 18 months of his apprenticeship. He won the Sydney junior premiership in that season.

The jockey vividly recalls the circumstances that led to his first Gr 1 win.

Tim fondly remembers the wonderful mare Hot Danish who had to be put down in 2011 when she failed to respond to treatment for a massive hind leg infection. He remembers the exciting racing style of the daughter of Nothin’ Leica Dane.

He reflects on his favourite Gr 1 win- the 2011 Doncaster Mile on the noted mudlark Sacred Choice.

Following the passing of Hot Danish the jockey elected to take up a Hong Kong contract. He talks of two successful seasons in the mecca of great jockeys.

Tim remembers Avoid Lightning, the mare who regenerated his career in Sydney. He looks back on his first trip to Perth and the Gr 1 winner he rode for the excitable trainer Gary Moore.

Clarky talks of his two wins in the Gr 1 Flight Stakes. The fillies in question are among his all time favourites.

He elaborates on his reputation as a skilled rider of front runners. He mentions Samadoubt who led throughout to give him two Group victories at Randwick.

The popular jockey talks about family life with wife Jade and daughter Elly. Jade is a sister to talented jockey Josh Parr and daughter of former successful rider Steven Parr.

Tim closes with mention of his love for the NSW Central Coast.