While many people at the races watch, cheer and bet on their favourite horses, in the background, the trainers and owners work their best to put on a great show and, hopefully, win. \u00a0<\/p>\n
At a recent meeting at the Newcastle Racecourse, I was able to procure a \u201cbehind-the-scenes\u201d look at the stables and observed the care provided for each equine athlete.<\/p>\n
The day was marked by damp grounds and periodic rain, causing many competitors to scratch. \u00a0<\/p>\n
But, not Denim Wynen, who raced two gallopers, Triple Triple and Alabama Blitz, following a win in Sydney. \u00a0<\/p>\n
The 29-year-old trainer, who has worked in the industry since she was 14, recalls the victory as her proudest moment so far. \u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cI started by shovelling s$$t,\u201d laughed Wynen, who ventured into her career to avoid going to school.<\/p>\n
Since then, she has worked her way up to winning trainer.\u00a0<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019re lovely animals to work with,\u201d Wynen said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThey\u2019ve got their own personalities, each horse. I love the job.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Triple Triple and Alabama Blitz, both ridden by jockey Olivia Chambers, placed second and third in their respective races on the day.<\/p>\n
Afterwards, many of the horses require a spray down and are fitted with red or black masks. \u00a0<\/p>\n
A black mask depicts a well-behaved horse, however those in red are often described as \u201cnaughty\u201d, according to owners Albert and Heidi O\u2019Hearn. \u00a0<\/p>\n
The O\u2019Hearns own Devious Mind\u2026 or \u201cDavid\u201d as he is identified among trainers.<\/p>\n
\u201cHe\u2019s well-known at the track,\u201d Heidi said.<\/p>\n
\u201cOne of the only ones with a name, so everyone talks to David.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n
Despite the competition, trainers have worked alongside each other for years and are friendly. \u00a0<\/p>\n
Wynen and her team, including last-start winner Sunshine Law,\u00a0are scheduled to compete on Saturday 16 August at Rosehill Gardens. \u00a0<\/p>\n
The O\u2019Hearns, however, will return to the Newcastle track on\u00a0Thursday 14 August\u00a0with another prospect, Ocean Shores. <\/p>\n
University of Newcastle journalism student Zoe K. Jenkins\u00a0<\/p>\n
For more sports stories:<\/p>\n