60 seconds with Taiki Yanagida
We caught up with Matamata apprentice Taiki Yanagida, here's what we learnt in 60 seconds...
What made you want to pursue a career in racing?
I have longed to be a jockey since I saw racing for the first time.
What do you love most about racing?
The values of a win. A lot of people work hard for the win, there is a feeling of teamwork.
What has been a career highlight for you?
Anytime I win a race and share the joy with the team.
Do you have a favourite horse you’ve ridden?
Hard to pick just one but I’d say Voler Pour Moi. She is such a tiny and small type of horse, but despite this always tries hard and never gives up.
Do you have a favourite jockey?
Joao Moreira
Favourite New Zealand track?
Matamata
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received?
If a gap is there, and you don’t go for it. You wonder if it is fair as a jockey. By Joao Moreira
If you weren’t in racing, what would your job be?
Police officer or chef.
When you're not riding, what do you spend your time doing?
Going for a walk or run in the bush, or watching movies.
If you could switch lives with someone for the day, who would it be?
Christophe Soumillon, because he can control or hold any kind of horse during the race. I would like to see how that feels.
If you could invite three people to dinner, living or dead, who would you invite?
Joao Moreira, Ryan Moore, and Albert Einstein.
Favourite TV show?
Any comedy.
Favourite food?
Any Japanese foods.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I’m super shy....
