Imagine dedicating your entire career to achieving the pinnacle of success in your sport, only to have it momentarily slip through your fingers due to an unforeseen injury. This is the story of Callum Shepherd, a jockey who knows all too well the fragility of momentum in his chosen profession.
In a revealing interview with Georgia Cox, Shepherd opens up about the challenges he's faced and the lessons he's learned.
"You pour your heart and soul into racing, aiming for those Group 1 wins. To miss out on that opportunity, as I did with Bay City Roller and Caballo De Mar, was a bitter pill to swallow," he confesses.
Shepherd's career has been a rollercoaster, defined by both achievements and setbacks. A freak heel injury at Longchamp kept him sidelined for months, forcing him to watch as the sport moved forward without him. But he's back in the saddle now, reflecting on the patience and resilience required to rebuild.
"I'm ready to tackle the winter with renewed vigor," he declares.
When asked about the competitive landscape for young trainers, Shepherd acknowledges the appeal they offer but also highlights the strain on the workforce due to an imbalanced fixture list. "Trainers are already facing a staffing crisis, and yet the sport continues to tinker without addressing these fundamental issues," he observes.
The conversation turns to Shepherd's brother, Laird, a professional golfer. Despite their different paths, they share a deep understanding of the elite athlete's mindset and the challenges of injury. "We've both faced similar injury issues, and it's a testament to our resilience that we've come back stronger," Shepherd explains.
The last few winters have seen Shepherd jetting off to the Middle East, where he serves as stable jockey for George Scott. This international venture has proven lucrative, and Shepherd is optimistic about the team's continued growth in the region. "George is an exceptional trainer, and his expertise in traveling horses has opened up new opportunities for me," he says.
But it's not just about the wins; it's about the mindset of an athlete. "Racing is a lifestyle, and being unable to fulfill that role is incredibly frustrating. You work tirelessly to achieve those Group 1 wins, and missing out is a tough pill to swallow," Shepherd shares.
He goes on to discuss the importance of having a release from racing, highlighting the value of other interests like football and spending time with friends and family. "It's crucial to have perspective and the ability to switch off from the sport," he advises.
Looking ahead, Shepherd is excited to reunite with Bay City Roller, Quddwah, and Caballo De Mar. "These horses are consistent performers, and I'm eager to see what we can achieve together," he says.
Shepherd's journey is a testament to the ups and downs of a professional athlete's life. Through it all, he remains grateful for the support he's received and the opportunities that lie ahead.
"I'm proud to be part of George Scott's team, and I'm excited to see what the future holds," he concludes.
A true athlete's spirit, indeed.
