Five Minutes With... Randwick Clerk of the Course - Kelly Williamson

Kelly Williamson, 26 year old Randwick Clerk of the Course, grew up in Woronora, Sutherland Shire, NSW, with a love of horses that commenced young in life.

After starting riding lessons aged five at Kurnell Boarding Stables, young Kelly was given her own horse a few years later and attended Jenko Pony Club (pictured on Pinto below left).

The racing world soon beckoned and work experience at the racetrack turned into a career, then after a stint in the bush, Kelly returned to Randwick where she has been clerking for the last year and a half.

When she's not clerking at Randwick, Kelly is busy working, riding track work for the King of Racing, Bart Cummings.

Horsezone's, Georgia Fasher, recently caught up with Kelly to find out more about life at the track...

How did you first become involved in racing?
I did work experience at Gai Waterhouse's when I was 14, which was meant to be for one week, but I ended up staying for five years.

Do you own any horses of your own at the moment, if so what breed?
Yes, two Thoroughbreds, who are both ex-racehorses.
 

Who are some of the horses that you own and have owned?
I've taken a few horses off the track.  I had Stoway from Waterhouse's briefly - he's now a show horse.  I also had Maverick from Waterhouse's and sold him as a showjumper.  Another is Kings First from Bart's who I still have - he is currently teaching a young girl to be a jockey and Cody an ex-racer I saved from the knackery 12 years ago who is currently being a lawn mower!

What is it like working for the King of Racing?
I love working for the king! I love the way he trains and it's a very laid back stable!

In addition to Gai and Bart, have you ever ridden for anyone else?
Yes, I rode for two bush trainers Tas Morton and Stephen Lee.

Best horse you've ever ridden?
Viewed (pictured right)

Fastest?
Star Ripper.

Most famous?
So You Think.

Best horses you've ever had to lead out while clerking?
Theseo, Shoot Out and More Joyous.

Strangest moment at the track/races?
Definitely when I was being escorted out of the races on one occasion (for having to much of a good time) and Bart stopped Security and told them I work for him and I'm allowed to let my hair down at the races!

Most daring thing you have ever done?
Worn my shirt unturned at Gai Waterhouse's - only Waterhouse staff will find that funny!

Any tips for someone wanting to become a Clerk of the Course?
Don't pick your nose because you're always on TV!

What do you enjoy most about Clerking?
Watching races and getting paid for it.

What's not so enjoyable?
Taking Hugh Bowman to the gates.

 

What's it like working for Head Clerk Mick Stanley?
He's all bark and no bite and has taught me a lot in my time working with him.

Are you treated any differently to the male clerks?
Only slightly, I don't have to take any strong, naughty horses when there are three strong boys also clerking and I'm not complaining!

If you weren't involved in racing what would you be doing?
Not a clue - have never done anything else.

Spare time - what do you do?
Sleep, eat, sleep!

Favourite colour?
Blue.

Favourite food?
Hot chips chicken salt.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
A stay at home mum with three kids!