2007 Arrowfield Stud Blue Diamond Stakes
March 3, 2007
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I was almost dozing as I neared the familiar Caulfield station. Today (ok, I wrote this a week ago - on the 24th February), Caulfield Racecourse was hosting the 2007 Arrowfield Stud Blue Diamond Stakes. Ten more minutes and I would have passed Gate 2, scanned my finger and put on my black tie for work.
'Not this again,' I mumbled to myself. But at that moment I stepped past the security guard at the entrance. I caught my first glimpse of the race horses being walked in circles. Being away all summer, I had forgotten the feeling of excitement I got from seeing these legends in the flesh.
Race horses. Not just any horse, but a horse with something a little extra.
Whether it was a big heart or a big ambition, mere fitness and a good jockey wasn't going to be enough to get them over the finishing line in good time. These were thoroughbreds, with slim builds and lengthy strides, and as I turned to watch them my spirits rose and my step lightened. Their shiny coats gleamed in the autumn sunlight, and all about there was a sense of excitement in the atmosphere.
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My seven-hour shift passed quickly, today I worked the Hiskens bar, which is in the part of the grandstand that overlooks the finishing line. It is indoors, and the front of it is an enormous glass wall that allows everyone inside an uninterrupted view of the racecourse. It is an exciting spot to stand in, and inbetween serving champagne and gin & tonics, I was able to watch as the jockeys pulled their horses back after crossing the finishing line.
You can always tell the winners, as they seem to tip.
Before long it was time to go. As I left, I passed the stables. The smell of steaming horses, fresh from the racecourse was strangely comforting. The crowds that were leaving the concourse were colourful, with the ladies dressed immaculately in flowing designer dresses and big hats.
I left Caulfield Racecourse in a good mood. My feet, as always, were hurting, but working in an environment that you love, you can't complain.
The spring races bring out the best and worst in everybody. Girls float around the city in designer garments, lost hats are strewn all about the streets and all about is an air of excitement.
It is not spring (our seasons are back to front), but races still run this time of year. In fact, I was working at a race last weekend and I've been rostered on for next weekend too.
In November, Spring Racing fever generally hits - in fact smacks - the three million people who live in Melbourne in the face. Painted statues of horses are erected along Bourke Street and equestrian motifs suddenly become very fashionable. As you probably know, the races aren't only about horses; they're also about fashion and betting.
Autumn Racing is less giddily sensationalised than the Spring Races, however they are still races nonetheless. And with that comes that familiar feeling of excitement and festivity.
A lot of study-abroad students tend to look for jobs when they're in Australia, and after acquiring the correct visa it's fairly easy to get a job at the races, even with little experience. You just have to apply at the right time.
In July of 2006 I scoured the net for casual jobs. The Melbourne Racing Club were employing. What a dream! I love horses, even just the sight of them will set my mood in order. A quick interview and I was in.
What is working in Melbourne like?
Surprisingly enjoyable.
It is not spring (our seasons are back to front), but races still run this time of year. In fact, I was working at a race last weekend and I've been rostered on for next weekend too.
In November, Spring Racing fever generally hits - in fact smacks - the three million people who live in Melbourne in the face. Painted statues of horses are erected along Bourke Street and equestrian motifs suddenly become very fashionable. As you probably know, the races aren't only about horses; they're also about fashion and betting.
Autumn Racing is less giddily sensationalised than the Spring Races, however they are still races nonetheless. And with that comes that familiar feeling of excitement and festivity.
A lot of study-abroad students tend to look for jobs when they're in Australia, and after acquiring the correct visa it's fairly easy to get a job at the races, even with little experience. You just have to apply at the right time.
In July of 2006 I scoured the net for casual jobs. The Melbourne Racing Club were employing. What a dream! I love horses, even just the sight of them will set my mood in order. A quick interview and I was in.
What is working in Melbourne like?
Surprisingly enjoyable.
