Cover image courtesy of Wentwood Grange
Favourite moment - racing, sales or breeding related - for 2025?
Winning a Group 1 race with a sales graduate is always a highlight, and Quintessa won the first Group 1 race of the season in New Zealand.
Quintessa | Image courtesy of Kenton Wright (Race Images)
Which first-season sire are you most excited to see at the 2026 yearling sales?
Anamoe - We have 3 lovely yearlings in our draft, and he was an absolutely electric racehorse
Anamoe | Standing at Darley
Name an emerging human talent in the industry, and say why?
Brooke Hawthorne - She’s worked on and off for us for 11 years, and has had huge success pinhooking with her partner Ryan Stacey. We are thankful to have them both as part of our team
Brooke Hawthorne | Image courtesy of Wentwood Grange
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Don’t eat yellow snow.
What positive change would you like to see in the industry?
More mainstream media with positive stories.
Swap jobs with anyone, who, and what would you do?
My Vet.
What’s been the most challenging moment in your career, and how did it shape you?
Working with family can be challenging at times, but as you grow and build your relationships with them. It can also be the most rewarding. and sharing the roller coaster of emotions running a family farm.
Leigh, Dean and Sean Hawkins | Image courtesy of Wentwood Grange
Is there a particular horse you think about often? Why?
At the moment, we are lucky to race a 2-year-old called Harvey Wallbanger. who has been unlucky in his last two starts. He looks very promising.
What has been your favourite day at a racecourse?
Breeding Little Bridge, the winner of G1 King's Stand Stakes at Royal Ascot.
If you could change one thing about the perception of horse racing, what would it be?
How much everyone loves and cares for the horses, and the effort we all put into making sure they have a fantastic life before, during, and after racing
