Country racing stars win back-to-back awards 

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Events, Thoroughbred

Top jockey Natasha Faithfull is Western Australia’s leading country jockey for the second year in a row thanks to a triumphant racing season including 31 country wins from 123 starts. 

Racing and Wagering Western Australia Chief Racing Officer David Hunter said Natasha led the field at the 2022 Country Racing Awards, just as she did riding Marxian in the 2021 Carnarvon Cup and Mordor in the 2022 Minilya Sprint.  

“Natasha has cemented her place as the jockey to beat in regional WA with her consistent skill and determination on the track,” said David. 

“As a young jockey, Natasha’s record is inspiring and her future is bright.” 

Also on the winners’ list for a consecutive year is Karnup-based trainer Darryn Pateman as the 2022 Leading Country Trainer. His tally of 17 country wins included the Derby Sprint with Dashing Image. 

“Darryn has truly proven himself as one of WA’s top country trainers after another stellar racing season, remaining consistent in form and results,” David said. 

Leading Country Apprentice is Austin Galati who impressed with his 25 country wins for the season.  

“Austin had a strong 2021/22 season and it is great to see his efforts rewarded,” David said. 

Dedicated leader in the country racing community Tom Day was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award.  

Tom is the Carnarvon Race Club President and has overseen a period of great change as the club transitioned from a non-TAB venue to full television coverage both nationally and internationally through SKY Racing. 

“Tom has been a vital figure in country racing for many years. Apart from racing horses in the Carnarvon area, Tom is a long-term member of the local club and has taken on a range of roles over the years,” David said

Rounding out the awards with an impressive five country wins for the 2021/22 season, WA Country Horse of the Year was Alcina. 

The awards were presented at Ascot Racecourse on Friday, 4 November 2022.