Tess Daly
How did you get involved in racing?
I was born and bred in racing. My dad has been a trainer for over 50 years, working all around WA before settling in Carnarvon. He met my mum there who was a talented horsewoman and rode trackwork for him for many years. I grew up riding horses and transitioned to racehorses around the age of 11. Some of my fondest childhood memories are travelling to race meetings with Dad in the truck, often with a case of “horse flu” when I wasn’t at school.
Naturally, I was drawn to the industry. I tried working in other fields and sports, but the passion racing brings, from participants to first-time patrons, is too strong to ignore. I’ve worked in many roles, including clerk of the course, stable foreperson, trackwork rider, racing manager and social media manager. I’ve also volunteered on several country club committees and still ride trackwork at Ascot when I can.
What is a memorable moment or experience that confirmed your passion for horse racing?
I’ve been lucky to be part of many special wins with my family and to witness incredible moments for others in the industry. One that stands out is my dad’s horse Mio Fratello, who won three metro Saturday races in a row in 2011, each after significant events in our lives, including the passing of my pop and the diagnosis of a sick family friend. Those wins meant more than just prize money, they brought light during tough times. That horse cemented my passion for racing and the animal itself.
What is your favourite track to cover, and why?
It’s hard not to say my hometown of Carnarvon, where I was clerk of the course for years and used to pretend to interview jockeys post-race. But Ascot during the Pinnacles is something I still pinch myself about. Hearing the crowd roar on Railway Stakes Day and turning around to see how many people are on course, it’s surreal. I used to dream of being on this side of the fence. The history and architecture at Ascot are also beautiful, and the countdown to returning to Racing HQ is always on across the state.
What’s one of the most memorable interviews you’ve conducted with a jockey, trainer, or industry figure?
One that stands out early in my presenting career was after the maiden win of Scurgeofthewest. The horse was bred by trainer Tony Scally, who also raced the dam, and the win was in honour of a dear friend who had passed away. Tony and the owners were emotional post-race, and the story behind the horse made the moment far more meaningful than just breaking maiden status. It’s something I’ll remember for a very long time.