For many, the allure of horse racing begins in childhood, a fascination with the speed, the skill, and the sheer spectacle of it all. This was certainly true for Matthew Smith, whose five-year-old gelding, Plymouth Road, recently demonstrated his trainer’s keen eye by leading from start to finish in the 2400-meter BM 82 race at Randwick. Smith’s journey to the winner’s circle is a testament to a lifelong passion nurtured from his roots in Wangaratta, Victoria, a region boasting one of Australia’s oldest country racetracks, established in 1855. His father, Christopher, a committee member of the Wangaratta Turf Club and an avid racehorse owner, undoubtedly played a significant role in young Matthew’s early exposure to the sport.
Growing up, Matthew rarely missed a Wangaratta race meeting and often ventured to other regional tracks. He was captivated by every aspect of racing, but his particular interest lay in the pre-race parade. He meticulously observed each horse, developing an acute understanding of thoroughbreds by analyzing their general health, coat condition, fitness levels, temperament, pre-race behavior, and the fluidity of their gait. This dedicated practice over many years honed his expertise, which he has since applied effectively throughout his career.
By the mid-1990s, at the age of 26, Smith decided to broaden his horizons, seeking valuable experience overseas in England, Ireland, and America. Before his departure, he spent a formative month in the Melbourne stables of John Sadler, absorbing as much knowledge about horse management as possible. He was advised that the most effective way to secure a position in a UK racing stable was to be proficient in “riding out,” the British and Irish equivalent of riding trackwork. This presented a significant challenge for Smith, as he had never ridden a horse before and was aware that most capable riders begin their equestrian journey at a very young age.
Shortly after arriving in England, he met Maggie Cox in Essex. A highly respected figure in the eventing and dressage worlds, Cox was also a skilled riding instructor. Matthew embraced the challenge, quickly taking to the saddle and surprising himself with his rapid progress.
Feeling he had developed sufficient riding ability, he traveled to Hospital, a small town in County Limerick, where he was introduced to National Hunt trainer Pat O’Donnell. Shortly after Matthew’s arrival, Pat had to travel, leaving his father, “PJ,” to oversee the stable. It was “PJ” who, perhaps unintentionally, provided Matthew with one of his most memorable and daunting experiences.
During a training session, “PJ” instructed all riders to head to the “drain paddock.” Puzzled, the riders entered a new paddock and set off at a strong canter. To Matthew’s astonishment, his mount began clearing drains that were 2-3 meters wide and deeper than he cared to imagine. Noticing Matthew’s apprehension, “PJ,” with a distinct Irish accent, called out, “You’ll be right lad, just grab a handful of mane and the neck strap.”
Six months later, Matthew had improved significantly and felt ready to move on to a place he eagerly anticipated visiting: Ballydoyle in County Tipperary. Ballydoyle is globally recognized as the premier horse training facility, a sister establishment to Coolmore Stud, both owned by John Magnier. Matthew was fortunate to secure a position within this renowned training operation and to meet Aidan O’Brien, who was of a similar age and relatively new to his role as the master of Ballydoyle.
“I didn’t waste any time telling Aidan that I was just a novice rider, but I was eager to learn and desperate to improve,” Smith recalled.
