Palise’s Broome Wish
Bonnie Palise claims she has some unfinished business when she returns to Broome this year.
The apprentice rider says she has a burning desire to win the Broome jockey’s premiership.
Palise came very close to taking out that award last season until she suffered an untimely setback.
As a young rider starved for opportunities in the city, Palise was enjoying the experience of regularly riding winners on Broome’s iconic red dirt.
The 24-year-old punched home nine winners and was right in the mix to take away the jockey’s premiership.
For Palise, a young rider with a low profile, it was a coveted award to win.
But on the eve of Broome’s final meeting for 2017-2018 and in a ruthless bad piece of timing, Palise’s hopes were dashed after an injury blow.
“It was the ladies meeting on a Tuesday and I won on Good Plan,” Palise told The Races WA.
“The horse shied on pulling up and dropped me after the line.
“I had delayed concussion and couldn’t ride the final meeting.
“I was really spewing because it cost me riding a couple of winners.
“I was up in the grandstand socialising instead of riding.
“I finished second behind Ellie (Cockram) in the jockey’s premiership.
“I definitely want to win it now after going so close.”
Palise can only see the benefits of being domiciled in Broome for another racing season.
Despite the idyllic environment and lifestyle of Western Australia’s tourist mecca, she is determined to work hard in developing her riding skills.
“I felt I learnt much more riding here last season,” Palise said.
“At home you have a lack of opportunities, but here you are riding every week.
“You have a full book of rides every week which is really good and consistent.
“I’ve become a much stronger rider because of it and use the whip much better.
“I feel much more comfortable in using it and am not as fumbly.”
Palise, who took up her apprenticeship again in 2017 after taking a five-year break, is confident she can add to her 29 win tally when the Broome season launches on June 1.
She is also confident it will put her on a path to achieving a career ambition.
“When I get back from Broome I have some goals,” said Palise.
“I haven’t ridden a metro winner as yet.
“That is something I want to check off my bucket list.”
Julio Santarelli