JIM HOULAHAN

 

Date of Birth: 14 May 1913.

Town where born: Bendigo, Victoria.

How did you get into racing? Born into a family interested in horses and racing.

First Winner/Track (flat and jumper): Bellarron (both).

Favourite Track (and why): Sandown because of its natural ground.

Best thing about being a jumps trainer: Educating horses and jockeys.

Worst thing about being a jumps trainer: Losing a horse.

Best jumper you’ve trained: Strasbourg and Sharp As.

What is the best jumper you would have loved to have trained: Fast Food.

Who is the best jumping rider you have seen? I don't want to be drawn into a debate on merits of his own jockeys, but B.R. Smith of the older brigade.

What is the best race you have witnessed? The Great Southern Steeple at Mornington between Kath Smith's horse, Valgo and Colin Hayes' horse, Black Butt. The lead changed six times and was a thrilling affair. I cannot recall who won it but I guess it was Valgo as they named the treble after him.

Outside of racing what are you most passionate about? People and family.

What is your training career goals? Keep training horses.

What is the strangest (amusing or serious) experience you've ever had in racing? Can't recall any strange things.

Would you like to tell us something about your family (partner, children, parents etc.)?

I have been blessed with wonderful parents and brothers and sisters. Mollie, my wife of 60 years who has been an unbelievable supporter, as have my children Pauline, Mark, Kathryn and Frances.