Bennett making miles count in Queensland move

By Jordan Gerrans

Western Australian hoop Kristy Bennett is not afraid of hard work as she aims to establish herself in the Sunshine State after relocating across the country.

Bennett recently shifted to the Gold Coast where she is riding trackwork for champion trainer Tony Gollan while also seeking opportunities across Queensland. 

In her first venture into her new state, the lightweight hoop made her way to Emerald in Central Queensland for three engagements on Saturday. 

It was a similar scenario for the 29-year-old when she was riding in WA. 

On one day, the hardworking hoop would be riding in the city and later in the week, she would be competing in places like Geraldton and Dongara after flying north. 

“I just got to the point of my life where I wanted to experience something new and have a new challenge,” she said.

“I did enjoy Perth and I was still getting opportunities.

“But, I just needed something to challenge myself more. I'm really into my fitness.

“I love the gym and I love that sort of lifestyle. I was weighing up between New South Wales and Queensland.

“When I looked into it more, I felt like Queensland had more like-minded people around this state.

“So, it wasn't just racing, it's like my lifestyle. I wanted to change in that, as well.”

After debuting in 2018, Bennett has racked up more than 180 career victories in her home state.

Her last winner was in January at Geraldton, which is a provincial track based about four hours north of Perth. 

It was a big learning curve for Bennett at Emerald on Saturday as it was her first riding experience in a race going anticlockwise.

While she could not land a breakthrough victory from three engagements, she said it was an important stepping stone. 

“It was a nice track to ride at and everyone was really friendly, all the girls in the room helped me out,” she said.

“And, they were all very welcoming. I’ve still got more to learn but just by going the other direction, that got me excited.

“I can't wait to really get the knack for going this direction and find my groove.

“I'm happy to go anywhere to pick up rides. I know I might have to work my way up.

“Obviously, I'd love to ride at tracks closer to where I am based, the metropolitan and provincial tracks, and get opportunities there.

“But, I'm happy to work to get to that point.

“I do back myself. I feel like I can ride, I just need to get the opportunities.”

Leading local Emerald trainer Glenda Bell had a day out on Saturday with three winners.

While Bell did not initially book Bennett for any rides on Saturday, the top horsewoman says the newcomer to Queensland certainly made a positive impact on her.

“I looked at the way the little girl rode, she is a very pleasant little girl,” Bell said.

“So, she got 10 out of 10 with me. I said to her, next time you come up, I'll find a ride for you. I'll be keen to put her on.

“She looked quite nice on the horse and she definitely gets a tick from me.”

After riding work for the Gollan camp in recent weeks, Bennett picked up a trial ride for the leading stable at the Gold Coast on Tuesday.

She partnered with Rapid Ember over 685 metres as they finished third behind stablemate Gancedo.

Bennett won an array of country Cups across WA and in her days as an apprentice, she rode a treble on Perth Cup day, which she regards as a career highlight.

She has ridden in a handful of Group and Listed events, as well.

Respected WA racing scribe Ernie Manning backed Bennett to make a mark in her new move.

“Kristy Bennett is a competent jockey who will do well in Queensland,” Manning said.

“Kristy has lacked the city opportunities that she deserves.”

Bennett will head to Nanango this Saturday.