.png)
Superstar track rider Megan Winters has been lucky enough to work with some super horses including Legarto (recently Australian Guineas winner!) and Levante several time Group One winner. From growing up watching her mum to riding and working with elite horses, Megan has come a long way and worked with some amazing people and horses that have all led her to where she is now. Behind the Stable Doors talked to Megan about her life, her horses and her career!
Growing up Megan watched the life she leads now. Her mother rode trackwork and Megan grew up learning the love of horses. She first had ponies and after a few grim experiences, Megan swore off horses. She later was sucked into trackwork to ride a baby that needed a special rider to take their time. During her time at school, she rode for Stephen Autridge in the morning and later finished her education – as per the strict conditions set by her mother!
The Rotorua to Matamata drive is roughly 50 minutes – and it’s a drive, Megan
takes every day. Her daily routine starts with an alarm at 4 am – hops in the car to drive to matamata, starts with Ken Kelso at 5 am where they currently have five horses in work and then finishes at approximately 9:30 am. Then depending on the week, Megan might have races/trials to attend or she might work a couple of afternoons a week. This is a life that Megan loves. She also has a young family and the hours allow her to spend quality time with them and do what she loves with some of the best horses in the country!
Some of Megan’s favourites along the way have included Antonio Lambardo and when asked to describe him she used a ‘labrador’ - so easygoing and lovable and was just an absolute dude. Penteverest was a very promising horse who unfortunately encountered a paddock accident and was never quite the same. He was a bit of a pet and one of Megan’s special horses. He was the kindest horse and was a bit of a lad and quite cheeky. He’s a big fan of iceblocks! Listening to Megan talk about Supera sounded a bit like a love/hate relationship. She was a difficult mare, to say the least, but entitled to win a group one. Megan cites that she made her the rider she is and whilst she was difficult she made Megan tougher and able to handle horses of all sorts better going forwards. However, when Mark Donaghue left and Megan was going to have to ride it every day she did cry…
Levante and Legarto are both very easy to deal with and kind-natured. Legarto is a touch more business while Levante is the most perfect-natured horse – whom Megan has a huge soft spot for. Megan’s young son leads Levante in from the paddock when he comes over to work with mum!
Megan’s proudest moment revolved around her favourite – Levante when asked for any specific memories Megan simply said “any and every one of her wins!”. She is a multiple group one winner and a beautifully kind horse. She also said that considering everything that happened (a broken bridle at the start as they are about to load!” she was extremely proud of Legarto to win the group one 1000 guineas.
Megan would not change a thing about her life. Everything she has been through, done and achieved has led her to where she is now – which is truly happy. She loves her life, her job, and her horses and has a beautiful family.
Megan is one of the so many dedicated employees of the thoroughbred industry who are devoted to their horses and provides them with the best care and love. Reaping the rewards for her hard work, Megan is currently travelling with Levante in Australia where she races tomorrow in the George Ryder Stakes at 6 pm – we wish her all the very best!
Comments