ABOUT COREY BROWN

TWO TIME MELBOURNE CUP WINNING JOCKEY

I’m Corey Brown, and in April of 2021 I made the heartbreaking decision to put away my silks and saddles, on the emphatic advice of my orthopaedic surgeon. Following two major surgical procedures and countless hours of rehabilitation, my specialist was of the opinion that the effects of spinal injuries sustained in a Brisbane race fall in June of 2019 would render impossible my return to the saddle.

I’m currently gaining comfort from the many happy memories I’ve gathered in twenty-nine years as a professional jockey. In that time I had the good fortune to win around 3000 races including more than fifty at Group 1 level. Some of those wins were achieved outside of Australia. I’ve always been grateful for the opportunity to compete overseas, especially my participation in the famous Shergar Jockeys Challenge at Royal Ascot. To ride in several races on that famous course against some legendary opposition, was a humbling experience.

The most precious of all my racing memories center on a long association with the Melbourne Cup. How could the little bloke from Wingham who unceremoniously “hit the deck” at his first race ride, ever dream of winning the great race twice?  My four Cup placings were almost as exhilarating. I’ll be forever grateful to have had the opportunity to ride so many outstanding horses. Exceed And Excel and Apache Cat are the first two to come to mind in my reflective moments.

In almost three decades of involvement in the racing game, I encountered every kind of human emotion you can imagine. I’ve known jockeys struggling with weight problems, dehydration, depression, social issues, marital upheaval, opportunity deprivation, and post-accident trauma- you name it. Without even trying, I think I’ve picked up a fairly extensive understanding of the pitfalls associated with a very unusual mode of employment.

The time has come for me to put that experience to good use. I’d be privileged to support any jockey struggling with one or more of the aforementioned concerns. I might even be able to offer a pointer or two in the race riding department. If I can be of any assistance to a member of this difficult but noble profession, I’d love to hear from you.

I made a mess of my debut as a professional jockey. I’m sure I can do better in my new role as a supporter of jockeys who might need a helping hand.