WINNO'S SIXTY SECONDS WITH ...BILLY HEALEY

By Darren Winningham with Billy Healey | Thursday, February 2, 2017

What is your role in racing?

Trainer.

Do you have a nickname?

Actually, no I do not!

How long have you been training?

My dad Dale was training for a while and we formed a partnership – dad and son team around October 2016. We are based at the Sunshine Coast.

How many horses do you have in work?

We have 22 horses in work at the moment. The stable has been going well. We have some great horses in there and we are fortunate to have a good bunch of owners who support the stable as well.

Our Story blitzed them the other week at Eagle Farm?

It was a great win. She has always been a mare that has shown a fair bit of ability and promise so it was good to see her win at Eagle Farm. She should run again on 4 February 2017 in town again. Josh Oliver will probably ride her again. Winno said it couldn’t win … well he is a bad tipster isn’t he (laughing)

So before being a trainer what was Billy Healey doing?

I was a show jumper. I ride track work now for my horses and other horses.

When you were show jumping you rode work as well?

I used to ride track work for Jason McLachlan, Darryl Hansen and Natallie McCall. I worked under Darryl as well for about six months and learnt a lot before teaming up with dad. I was too big to be a jockey!

What is the fondest memory for the Healey stable?

Last year when we ran third in the Ipswich Cup with a $9000 tried horse – it was a great thrill. He had done not much in the few starts prior so it was a great effort.

The other thing that has been memorable is in 2016 I picked out my first lot of yearlings for myself and dad. The first one that was able to make it to the track “I Am Venus” won at her first start, ridden by Jimmy Orman. Winning that one was a great thrill for the connections and the stable.

Best thing you like about your work?

The thrill of winning ... but behind the scenes there is a lot of work and planning that goes into a horse and a preparation to be able to get them ready and fit to win. It is a great feeling when the work you have done is rewarded and it pays off.

What do you do when you cannot sleep?

Book work – I like to keep up to date.

What time do you get up to start work in the morning?

I start around 1.45am most days. I am usually first or second there.

How do you prefer to be woken up in the morning?

With my own Iphone and an alarm.

A memorable horse or performance for the stable?

Well I touched on it before. I Am Venus winning in town first up was memorable for me.

What’s your favourite horse you have ridden?

The one that I have ridden and that has always been pretty close to me is Phelan Ready. It was trained by Jason McLachlan – we did a lot of work with him at home and out at the beach before that good race at Doomben with Luke Tarrant on board.

What was the turning point in your career?

Dunno, it hasn’t turned yet!

What are you always late for?

Afternoon shift.

If you were not a horse trainer what would you be doing?

A farrier or a horse breaker – they are challenging.

When you retire what would you do?

I would like to own or set up a pre training farm.

What is your favourite music?

Country.

Who is your favourite musician?

Lee Kernaghan

What is the most embarrassing song on your phone?

Taylor Swift – I sort of have plenty of them.

Can you sing some of your favourite Taylor Swift song?

No … I will not!

What is your favourite gadget?

IPad.

What would you chose as your last meal?

Steak, salad and chips and pepper sauce.

Name one person who you want to have dinner with?

Not you Winno. (I said well if you did you would be paying Billy!) A good looking female – how about Taylor Swift. Why? Take a look her – she is bay!

Name one thing you could not live without?

My phone

What is your greatest fear?

Snakes! I F… hate them!

Have you ever found any in your stables?

No, never! I would hate it if I ever did!

One of your favourite places to be?

The race course.

Name a place you have travelled to and liked?

Probably 1770 when my parents owned a place up there that over looked the ocean!

NRL/AFL favourite team?

NRL – Cowboys. AFL – who cares

State of Origin time – NSW or QLD?

Queenslander!

Why Queensland?

Because we are far better than you lot!

Who do you talk to most on the phone?

My dad.

What are you grateful for everyday?

How much my parents have supported me!

What item symbolises Australia for you?

Thongs and XXXX.

What do you like to put on a sandwich?

I am pretty boring – I don’t put odd stuff on my sandwiches like some of the other people you have spoken to! Actually thinking about it I am not a real sandwich person. I like fruit – I am watching my weight!

Is that a cheap shot at me?

No, but you should try eating some fruit!

What toppings do you like on your pizza?

Supreme pizzas from Dominos!

How do you define success?

Work and dedication.

Who is you man crush?

Not Trent Edmonds or Toby McIntosh. Jonathan Thurston – Cowboys NRL and Queenslander!

Why JT ?

He is a mad player!

Tell us something that may surprise us about you?

I was a champion show jumper! I was champion in NSW twice and QLD once! All three times as junior young rider. I am pretty good looking too hey? (I declined to answer)

If you are down to your last $10 what would you spend it on?

Probably have a bet! On a greyhound probably!

Are you serious?

Yes only have to worry about 8 dogs or less in those fields!

Thanks for spending 60 seconds with Winno Billy!

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