The Australian racing community is in mourning following the passing of deeply respected trainer Colin Webster on Sunday at the age of 85. The news has prompted an outpouring of emotion, most notably from champion jockey Troy Turner, who penned a moving tribute to his mentor and father figure.
A Bond Forged in the Stables
Troy Turner, who was apprenticed to the leading trainer at just 15 years old, shared a profound and successful partnership with Webster spanning more than 36 years. The pair combined with celebrated horses including Beau Heed, Rogan Josh, and the recent Railway Stakes winner, Trix Of The Trade.
In his emotional piece, Turner, who affectionately called Webster 'Boss', credited the trainer as the foundation of his career. "I would not be where I am today without their unwavering support, guidance and love," Turner wrote. "He was a father to me."
Turner highlighted Webster's exceptional horsemanship and character, describing him as a rare individual who left a lasting mark through both results and his treatment of people and animals. "Colin trusted his jockeys and that trust meant everything," Turner recalled. "You knew that if the boss thought a horse was ready, it was ready."
Belmont Trials Hint at Future Winners
Meanwhile, at Belmont, a series of fast-class trials provided early glimpses of potential track success. Horcux, a Simon Miller-trained gelding without a win in over a year, signalled a return to form with an all-the-way victory. Ridden by Chloe Azzopardi, the four-year-old led confidently and scored by a length over Sherpa Express.
Other notable performances included the two-year-old filly Yamanex, who ran on from midfield to win her 1000m heat in 1:01.99 for trainer Josh Brown. Another juvenile, Maria Lucia, prepared by Sean and Jake Casey, won her trial in 1:02.65 under a quiet William Pike ride, looking to have plenty in reserve.
The unraced three-year-old Gypsy Rhyme remained undefeated in trials this year with a front-running victory by two and a half lengths, while Aberdeen Flyer showed promise with a smooth win in a 1200m trial.
Geraldton Meeting Rescheduled Due to Extreme Heat
In other racing news, Geraldton's Thursday race meeting has been shifted to Friday and will not commence until 2:27pm due to forecast high temperatures. The move underscores the ongoing challenges posed by Australia's climate to the sporting calendar.
Colin Webster's legacy, as so eloquently stated by Troy Turner, lives on through the champions he prepared, the jockeys he mentored, and the indelible memories shared by all who knew him.
