New training partnership to start in SA

South Australia will have its latest harness racing training partnership in September.

Champion trainer Jill Neilson, from Penfield, will welcome Katie Wilson as co-trainer.

Training partnerships have been prolific in thoroughbred racing for several years but are a rarity in harness racing.

Neilson, who turns 64 this week, said Wilson deserved the recognition for her contribution to the stable’s successes in recent years.

“Katie has been a hard worker for my stable for more than four years and was instrumental in ensuring the stable functioned when I had some health issues over the past 12 months,” Neilson said.

“I have been slowing down and I am too old to sit behind some of the young horses these days.

“Katie, and the rest of the girls do a fabulous job and it just made sense to join in a training partnership.

“Leah (Holman) has got me going on the Cows for Cambodia trip later this year, so Katie can get the rightful recognition for any success the stable has during that time.”

Neilson said she expected to still do the training programs and talking with the stable’s owner Geoff Easom from Wyndown Stud while Wilson would be hands on with the horses.

“Nothing much will change, it is more about giving Katie the recognition she is due.”

Wilson admitted she was shocked when approached by Neilson with the offer.

“I have had interaction with horses since I was born,” Wilson said.

“I love working with them and have enjoyed my time with Jill.

“Her stable setup is fabulous, and we have some really nice horses thanks to Geoff Easom.

“I had no idea that she was contemplating offering me to join her in a training partnership.

“I was in a state of shock and am honoured to be able accept the role.”

Wilson admitted she loved working with “problem” horses.

“I enjoy the challenge of making friends with horses which have attitude.”

Wilson already trains her own small team, Moneymakinmonkey, Let Me Dream and Ideal In Rubies who was bred by champion driver Danielle Hill.

The partnership is expected to have its first runners at Globe Derby this Saturday, September 2.

From HRSA Media