Brother and sister jockeys Jason and Alysha Collett are preparing for an exhilarating showdown in the $3 million Big Dance (1600m) at Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney, Australia. This prestigious event, part of Sydney’s Melbourne Cup Day festivities, is celebrated for its generous prize purse and lively atmosphere.
Jason, 34, will be aboard Ruby Flyer, a gelding trained by Brad Widdup, while his younger sister Alysha will ride Cranky Harry, trained by Matthew Dunn. Despite a competitive edge, their shared passion for racing fosters a sense of pride in each other’s achievements.
The Colletts, New Zealand-born second-generation jockeys, come from a lineage rich in equestrian success. Their father Jim is a respected former jockey turned trainer, and their mother Judy boasts over 100 career victories, making them well acquainted with the demands of the sport.
The Big Dance not only serves as an exhilarating platform for the Collett siblings but also excites racing fans as it builds anticipation for the Melbourne Cup. Often dubbed “the race that stops a nation,” the Melbourne Cup is a long-standing tradition in Australia, known for its community spirit and ability to unite people from various backgrounds.
As the event approaches, enthusiasm grows among both competitors and spectators. The Big Dance promises to showcase a thrilling array of talented jockeys and horses, enhancing the anticipation for a spectacular celebration of horse racing that embodies the dynamic spirit of Australian culture.