Lauren Russo experienced one of the biggest thrills in her career last weekend, when she strapped Belle En Rouge for her winning performance in the Gr.1 Al Basti Equiworld Dubai New Zealand Oaks. We caught up with Lauren to chat about the win and learn a little more about how Lauren got involved in the racing industry.

A big congratulations for Belle En Rouge's efforts in the New Zealand Oaks! Explain the feeling you had watching the race?

It was crazy! Once the race had started, I was struggling to watch it without covering my eyes. When they got into the straight and Self Obsession hit the front, we were cheering her. All of a sudden, we saw Belle En Rouge (Jane) coming into the race. Suddenly we were all screaming for Jane, just hoping they wouldn't catch her especially as we saw the likes of Aspen Colorado hitting the line hard. Once she passed the line and I realised she'd won, there was just this overwhelming disbelief. She was exceptional. It's hard to explain what a mix of emotions it was.

How were the nerves pre-race?

I was terribly nervous prior to the race. I was just stoked to be able to strap a horse in a Group race, let alone the Oaks. I'm pretty anxious with any horse I strap, so the extra buzz that comes from the crowd prior to the race, really brought additional hype.

Do you have any pre-race rituals/ superstitions?

I do have a few superstitions... I'm a terrible punter, so I never back any horses I strap and never like to tip them prior to the races. It sounds a bit crazy, but I always like to talk to the horses before the race. My most important thing is that they come home safe, having a winner or placing is just a bonus.

What did the win mean to you?

The win was incredible and so surreal at the same time. It really meant the world to me. For anyone in the racing industry, winning a Group One is the ultimate. I think the fact that she was more of an unfavoured runner in the race (paying $26) made the win even more special.

All credit must go to the Te Akau team, they've done a superb job with this filly and I was so pleased for them. I'm just lucky to be able to strap horses like Belle En Rouge. There were so many aspects that made it special: knowing how much this meant to Jason (Laking), being his second Group One win in 20 years, a testament to his hard work and such a brilliant ride. It was also special as it was Jamie's last Group One winner in New Zealand before he heads to Hong Kong.

That winning feeling! Lauren moments after Belle En Rouge’s Oaks win.

How did you first get involved in the racing industry?

I rode horses when I was younger and worked in a show jumping stable. My grandfather trained a few horses and because of that, I always had a dream to work in racing.

I first got involved in racing when I left school at 16, about five years ago. I started off in a small boutique stable, with very little knowledge of how the racing industry worked. I was entrusted with a lot of responsibility and able to learn a lot.

As soon as I started in racing, I knew this was my passion. I left that job after a year to work at Valachi Downs, where I stayed for three years. I decided to go into stud work as I felt I needed to learn about other aspects of the thoroughbred industry. It was a great learning experience, and I was lucky to work in all different divisions - pre-training and breaking, yearlings and broodmares and foals. I ended up back in racing through Wexford Stables at the start of 2021. Returning to racing has solidified that this is where I want to be.

What do you enjoy most about working with horses?

I love working with the horses! They're all so different and have their own quirks. It feels like such a privilege to be working with horses, especially thoroughbreds - they are so versatile, willing and give us so much. Win or lose, my focus is always on the welfare of the horse and I don't treat any horse differently. It's amazing to be a part of their journey and I really appreciate what they do for us.

Is there one horse who has a particularly special place in your heart?

I have many favourites but to name two horses that have had the most impact on me personally, I’d have to say Aero de Paris (Aero) and Belle En Rouge (Jane). I have a small share in Aero, and he has such a special place in my heart. Jane is also very special to me, providing me with one of the biggest thrills in my career.

Both horses have the same qualities that I love to see in racehorses - tenacity, resilience and a will to win. Both horses are so genuine and give their all on the racetrack, which is all we can ask of them. I'm so grateful they have both come into my life and I get to work with many others that I really admire.

Lauren and Aero de Paris.

What would you say to someone looking to enter the racing industry for the first time?

You have to be willing to work hard and learn as much as you can. I think being open to learning and taking on board any advice you receive is really important. Ask questions, support others and have genuine pride in your work, always striving to give the best care to the horses and do all tasks to the best of your abilities. Working in the industry isn't always easy, but once you're in it, it's hard to shake that passion. It's definitely addictive!