Riders take to the cricket pitch to raise funds for National Jockeys Trust

By Jordan Gerrans

Jockeys are competitive as it gets between each other when on the race track.

But, as soon as one in their ranks lands on hard times, they are always the first to lend a hand or wrap their arms around their mates.

Those that have fallen on difficult times will be front of mind when the Queensland Jockeys’ Association is set to host its inaugural charity Twenty20 cricket match on Monday, March 28. 

The top riders from across the Sunshine State will don the whites and pads to raise funds for the National Jockeys Trust.

The jockeys will take on a side made up of racing participants from around the regional areas of Queensland, playing under the name the “Country All Stars”, who will be raising cash for Save a Horse Australia.

Australian Jockeys Association Queensland representative Pam O'Neill, a Queensland Sport Hall of Fame member for her feats in the saddle, said the late Chris Caserta as well as other hoops that have suffered bad falls often rely on the National Jockeys Trust.

“It is mainly for jockeys if they are in difficulties if they have a fall or sadly when there is a funeral – like with Chris Caserta, who sadly drowned, they paid for his funeral and helped with his affairs,” O'Neill said.

“It is a very good cause. All the jockeys contribute to and run the Trust.”

O'Neill, who earlier this year was recognised with an Order of Australia Medal in the Australia Day honour's list for service to horse racing as a jockey, has been a voice for riders since she retired.

“All the jockeys are very involved in the Trust and I know they have helped 345 families and jockeys and they have paid over $5 million dollars,” O'Neill said.

“It is a very good cause and at present it is hard getting funds – so we thought this game would be a good idea for both charities. That is our goal to help both.”

Premiership winning hoop Baylee Nothdurft is keen to be involved in the game and support others within the industry.

“The jockeys are very competitive, it is competitive on the race track but when someone does get hurt or something like that, we all rally behind each other,” Nothdurft said.

“The causes like the Jockeys Trust are big helps to us and we cannot thank them enough for what they do.

“It is a really good foundation. It is a really good foundation to get behind, everyone has rallied behind it.”

The idea for a cricket game between the jockeys was first floated up at Caloundra at a race meeting.

With the races delayed, the male hoop’s had a small game of cricket there with a tennis ball.

Experienced hoop Larry Cassidy was impressed with how well a few of the boys went – specifically the Lloyd brothers – and eventually the concept got enough momentum to where it finally got off the ground.

While the format is T20, the jockeys side have been anything but hit and giggle, having numerous training sessions and practice matches to prepare for the big game against the bush side.

“It is going to be bigger than the Ashes, I think,” O'Neill said with a laugh.

“We are going out of our way to make it a big success and hopefully we can make it ongoing every year.

“It is a good thing and it gives the jockeys something else to do outside of their riding.”

Multiple Group 1-winning rider Cassidy believes the hoop’s have enjoyed the comradery away from the races.

“Hopefully we can build on this in the years to come,” Cassidy said.

“It is a great way to bring everyone together, we have had a ball at training and down the nets.

“It is good fun, bonding, and it sets us up for the game coming up.”

While the jockeys are keen to roll their regional opponents across the 40 overs, O'Neill knows there is a greater focus away from a victory for her side.

“I always say it is very tight knit the thoroughbred racing industry,” O'Neill, who will act as the jockeys’ honorary coach, said.

“You are welcomed into the fold everywhere you go; they are always there to help.”

Of the jockeys, Taylor Marshall and Beau-Dene Appo have impressed in scratch matches with their intensity in the field while the Lloyd brothers – Jaden and Zac – have all the necessary skills, Cassidy says. 

The contest will be held at the Norths Cricket Oval.

On the eve of the Twenty20 fixture, team presentations and a charity auction will take place on Sunday, March 27, from 6 pm at Gallopers Sports Club (304 Lancaster Rd, Ascot QLD 4007).

Details of the T20 cricket match include:

• When: Monday, March 28 – Match commences at 4pm
• Where: Norths Cricket Oval – 128 Shaw Rd, Wavell Heights
• Who: City Slickers v Country All Stars

Racing Queensland is proud to support the QJA T20 cricket match.