A day in the life ...

4AM

The stable stirs before the rest of the world. Stable staff arrive to check each horse’s feed bin – an empty one is a reassuring sign of a healthy appetite, and the trainer is notified if anything is left uneaten. Every horse has its temperature taken to confirm it sits within the healthy range of 37–38 degrees Celsius. Water buckets are cleaned and refilled, breakfast is prepared and served, usually a nourishing mix of oats, chaff, corn and muesli alongside hay, and stalls are freshened up. The morning often begins with the horses heading to the equine swimming pool while their boxes are mucked out and laid with clean bedding.

5AM

Flemington’s eight world-class training tracks span more than 12 kilometres and 10 hectares, maintained around the clock to guarantee perfect conditions underfoot. Each horse begins its morning exercise with a trot and canter on the sand track before moving into a gallop on the Polytrack. Feedback from the regular rider gives the trainer invaluable insight into the horse’s mood, movement and readiness for the day ahead. Trainers often watch from one of the towers, sharing coffee and conversation.

6AM

After exercise comes one of the great simple pleasures: a roll in the sand. The enclosed sand roll area gives horses the chance to stretch, scratch and unwind. It’s followed by a shower and shampoo in the wash bay, then a 20-minute stroll in the horse walker to dry off. Staff grease the hooves to maintain moisture and health, and check carefully for any loose shoes. For horses racing that day, this is also when the on-call farrier may come through to reset or check shoes ahead of the race.

8AM

Back in the stall for a second breakfast – premium fuel for an elite athlete. This is also a common time for the equine vet, physiotherapist or horse dentist to visit. Horses may receive a physiotherapy session or massage to loosen muscles and aid relaxation, while the vet conducts any necessary health checks or treatments. It’s a quiet but important window for the professionals who keep these athletes performing at their best.

10AM-12PM

After being tended to, the horses rest in the quiet stable, and younger ones might be entertained with toys. If they are racing at Headquarters, it is a short trip to the track. Accompanied by a strapper, the horse undergoes final preparations like brushing and a feet check, then relaxes in a stall, sometimes with a pony for company. Finally, race gear is fitted, and vets and stewards conduct pre-race inspections.

RACE TIME

The saddling process is careful and considered, balancing weight and ensuring comfort. Then, after meeting with their jockey and a parade in the ring, the gates open, and all of the preparation comes down to minutes. Win or lose, the moment the horse returns to the mounting yard the checks begin immediately to ensure everything is well, followed by water and the start of a careful cooldown. On-course vets are present throughout, ready to assess any horse that needs attention after their run.

POST-RACE

Post-race recovery is carefully managed. It begins with hosing down the horse to regulate its temperature, walking it through the Parade Ring, and hosing it again to prevent sweat from crusting. Excess water is removed with a scraper, followed by a towel-down and a drink. A gentle walk helps work out lactic acid, similar to a human athlete winding down. Strappers often let horses pick at the grass in the parade area, helping them to relax. If selected for post-race testing, a swabbing attendant leads the horse to the vet block for analysis.

5-6PM

With the last race run, the day at the track winds down. Horses are loaded for the journey home, strappers keeping a close eye on them throughout. Back at the stables, staff begin the evening routine – checking bins, preparing dinner, and assessing how the horse has pulled up after the race. Some trainers apply ice boots or a cool clay-based poultice to the legs to support overnight recovery. A final pat, a warm rug if the night calls for it, and the horse is settled in.

9PM

A stable hand returns for a final check, adding an evening rug and ensuring all is well. A visit to the sand roll earlier – that same simple pleasure from the morning – will have helped the horse unwind after the excitement of the race. The box is clean, water is fresh, and dinner has been served. Then the stable falls quiet, the horses left to rest and recharge.

A day in the life of ...

4AM

5AM

6AM

8AM

10AM-12PM

RACE TIME

POST-RACE

5-6PM

9PM

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