60 Seconds with Sam Collett

The Races - Caitlin O'Sullivan
13 December 2019
 
From her biggest inspiration to gardening, check out what we covered in  60 seconds with group 1 winning jock Sam Collett… 
 
What is your earliest memory of racing? 
 
My earliest memories of racing were going to the races with mum and dad when I was young.

 
What do you love most about racing? 
 
I love the fact that racing can bring so many people from different walks of life together. I’ve met so many interesting people through racing. 
 

What is the best horse you've ridden?
 
It’s hard to single out one particular horse. I’ve been lucky enough to ride some fantastic horses and they all have different attributes that made them successful. But my most favourite horse was Red Striker - she was so small and a bit crazy but she had a huge heart. 
 

Who is your biggest inspiration?
 
I’m inspired by anyone who gets up at stupid o’clock and works all day because of their passion for horses.
 

You have enjoyed much success in your career to date, which is most special to you? 
 
Easily my group one win on Glory Days (in the Auckland Cup). She did all of the hard work and was so brave. All of the support I had afterwards was very overwhelming.
 

What race would you love to win? 
 
I’d love to win any stakes race in Australia on a Kiwi horse.
 

If you weren't in racing, what would you be doing? 
 
I wanted to be a vet but I wasn’t dedicated enough to stay at school and study. Something involving horses I’d say.
 

If you could switch lives with someone for a day, who would you choose? 

I’d say any high profile movie star, just to see how many free things I could get and what it would be like to own a private jet! 
 

If you could invite three people to dinner, living or dead, who would you invite? 
 
My dads Mum and Dad - I never got to spend much time with them before they passed away. And Scarlett Johansson because she’s a total babe. 
 

What is one thing people would be surprised to know about you? 
 
That I’m a passionate gardener.
 

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