Tashi delivers Sherry maiden Group 1 in Tattersall’s Tiara

By Dylan Mutu 

It’s a day Irish-born hoop Tom Sherry won’t forget in a hurry, joining the elite ranks of Group 1-winning jockeys after guiding Tashi to a brilliant victory in the Tattersall’s Tiara on Saturday.

The Sydney-based rider combined with top trainer Peter Snowden for a career-defining moment aboard the mare, who had been a long-suffering bridesmaid before finally getting her lick of the ice cream.

Humble in victory, Sherry was almost lost for words after securing the major he’s chased for so long, paying tribute to those closest to him.

“It's brilliant, actually,” Sherry said.

“It’s sort of been a long time coming, trying to win a Group 1, but the stars aligned today, and I can’t thank Peter, his family and his team enough – and especially my fiancé.

“It’s been a long road. We’ve had a tough year, but when stuff like this happens, it makes it even more worthwhile.”

After a string of hard-luck runs this preparation, Tashi was finally able to turn the tables on Saturday, enjoying a comfortable midfield run and, crucially, finding clear air around the final bend – something that had eluded her in recent starts.

Sherry was quick to credit the horses ability to keep performing at the highest standard this preparation, thankful she was able to get the win she deserved.

“Yeah, she was unbelievable,” Sherry said.

“Again, credit to herself and the team. There’s a saying that when a mare’s in form, they keep producing – and that’s exactly what she did this prep, even without winning.

“She’s always been super consistent. And today she was able to prevail, I’m very proud of her.”

Snowden echoed those sentiments and admitted he had even considered sending Tashi to the paddock – a decision he’s sure now glad he resisted, with the victory delivering his remarkable 50th Group 1 success.

“She’s been tremendous – no one should begrudge her that,” Snowden said.

“She’s been racing so well for so long, it had me thinking, ‘Should I be doing this? Should I be giving her a break?’

“But she just kept putting her hand up and racing better and better. To see her do that today, I’m so proud of her.

“Tom rated her a peach. I think that’s his first Group 1 win – I’m so proud of them both.”

It’s been a long journey for Sherry, who arrived in Australia without a concrete plan but was soon taken under the wing of Bjorn Baker and Mark Newnham early doors. 

From there, one opportunity led to another as he climbed the Sydney riding ranks – culminating in Saturday’s breakthrough.

Even post-race, it was still sinking in.

“Yeah, this really feels like a bit of a weight’s been lifted off my shoulders,” Sherry said.

“These things don’t really happen to people like me – I’m very grateful.”