SPLASH TALK BY BELLA KING
RACING X GOLD COAST
There are interviews—and then there are moments that feel like scenes from a movie. My chat with apprentice jockey Paige Ferguson-Smith was the latter. Perched on horseback beside her, with the ocean lapping at our stirrups and the early morning sun casting gold across the water, we spoke while riding through the shallows on a serene Gold Coast beach. Paige, who is currently apprenticed to respected trainer Paul Shailer, shared her journey into racing, the importance of trusting your stable team mates, and her deep connection with the horses she rides. Calm and composed, Paige spoke with larger than life confidence that’s rare for someone still early in their career. As the horses walked through the water, Paige explained how these sessions are more than just a picturesque training day—they’re essential to keep both the horses and staff happy and of course laughing! Beach work offers horses low-impact conditioning, helping to build strength and stamina without the jarring pressure of track gallops. The saltwater is also soothing for joints and tendons, acting as a natural therapy to reduce inflammation and aid recovery. Mentally, it’s a change of scene that keeps horses fresh, relaxed, and happy. It was an unforgettable morning, and a beautiful reminder that behind every performance on the track is a rhythm of care, discipline, and ocean bliss.
Check out the full interview on the Racing X YouTube page.
https://www.youtube.com/@RacingX_au
Bella King
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