As the curtain closes on the 2019/2020 Racing Season, Allison Sheehan Racing can take a step back, draw a deep breath and reflect on the days past. It’s time to say a massive thank you to the entire team and importantly, the wonderful owners who have shared the journey with us.
While the season started off like many before it, it’s safe to say 2020 has been like no other. No matter who we are or which part of Australia we’re from, we’ve all been affected in one way or another by Covid-19. Thankfully, the way the Racing Industry has conducted itself in these times has been truly amazing and the fact that racing has continued, largely unaffected is a testament to the hard work everyone in the industry is putting in.
With that in mind, it is no surprise that the win of EL QUESTRO at Flemington on July 18 was a clear highlight of the season past. A city win, on a Saturday at Flemington is the pinnacle. It is what we all dream of, whether it be as an owner, a jockey or a trainer. But, as Allison recalls, the win was so much more meaningful than that.
“It was great to see the owners rewarded for their patience, but to put a smile on people’s faces, especially given the current climate is what made it so special”.
“It was an uplift to the spirits we all needed” Allison recalls.
The win also came with the downside of not being able to share the victory on course with the owners.
The victory of El Questro added to the season prizemoney, slightly bettering the 2018/2019 racing season. While the stable strike rate was slightly down, the 2019/2020 season was a season of growth, but more so building a foundation for future success. Allison is rapt to share in victory over the last season with over 25 individual owners!
With potentially the best bred two and three-year-olds coming through the ranks, the future looks bright! Let’s not forget the imminent arrival of Andrassy’s second foal. El Questro shows no signs of slowing down and can continue her fantastic form. Exciting times ahead!
While doing a season recap and thinking about the highs and lows it would be remiss to not mention the tragic day that rocked the Cranbourne training base in late August, 2019. The passing of apprentice jockey Mikaela Claridge at the Cranbourne Training Centre was incredibly saddening. The training base and everyone in the industry was in mourning and it was a very difficult time. Thoughts continue to go out to Mikaela’s family, friends and fellow riders.
Allison and staff would like to thank all owners, family and friends that have supported her and the stable throughout the past 12 months. She can’t wait to continue to share future success with you all.