In this edition of the OTI Gazette, we have a chat to one of Mark Twain’s co-trainers from New Zealand, Robert Wellwood.
We also take a look at the results of the Asian Racing Conference held in Melbourne last week, assess this weekend’s runners, welcome OTI’s newest team member and introduce Daqiansweet Junior’s half-sister, who is also in the caring hands of Phillip Stokes.
All that and much more!
A CHAT WITH ROBERT WELLWOOD
“I think what makes NZ bred horses so good is our breeders and our stud farms. Anyone who’s been across to New Zealand and seen where these horses are born and raised probably thinks it’s fairly self explanatory why the horses are so good. They’re grown on natural pasture in a lovely big country and they’re bred to be hearty, very sound horses and we’re proud of the way that they punch above their weight in the Southern Hemisphere.”
ASIAN RACING CONFERENCE
“The two issues raised at the Conference that seem critical to the future of the sport are equine welfare and racing’s connection with the younger generations (Gen Z’s). Both issues are related to a large extent as more people, especially young people, will not support activities where they are not assured of animal welfare. If racing can assure them that both existing and retired horses are well treated, there’s a chance of getting past the first base with the next generation.”
