Maddy Collins grew up with horses and her love for the animal has led her to a career in the industry as a track work rider and aspiring trainer.
How did you come to be work for Andrew Dale?
I’ve always had a love for horses. My nan got me my first pony when I was two years old and since then I’ve competed in pony club as well as endurance riding and show riding. I started riding track work in Wodonga but wasn’t enjoying myself over there and then a friend put me on to Andrew.
What do you enjoy most about working in the racing industry?
Apart from getting to work with horses all day I enjoy how fast-paced the industry is, you always have a job to do. It’s also a massive thrill on race day when the horses you love so much are first past the post.
You’re a shareholder in the Andrew Dale trained Gotta Want It, and have played a major role in the planning and preparation of this filly, is training something you aspire to do in the future?
Definitely. I love this industry and I’d love to be able to one day train a couple of my own horses. I’m learning so much every day by having Gotta Want It in work with Andrew and being involved in her preparation.
You have been with ADR for three years now, what do you enjoy most about working for the stable?
I enjoy that we’re a small stable and that Andrew treats us more like his friends than his staff. Also, by being a small stable you get to know each horse individually, they’re not just another number.
Besides Gotta Want It, which Andrew Dale trained horse has been your favourite and why?
Little Red Devil is my all-time favourite. He had the quirkiest attitude and you couldn’t help but smile when you saw him. He’d make me laugh every morning when he’d be bouncing around coming off the track…a little horse with a massive personality.
Outside of racing what are your interests?
I have a two-year-old son Isaac so when I’m not working I’m spending quality time with him. One day I’d love to be able to compete with my own horses again.
Words: Justin Jenvey
Picture: The Border Mail
