Getting out of bed hours before the sun rises is no chore for new trainer Ricky Moss.
In fact, for the former Woolworths Retail Manager, working with horses is a labour of love.
From an office to stable environment, Moss says it’s a lifestyle rather than a job.
Helping fuel Moss’ passion and drive is four-year-old mare Secret Pearl.
Following two wins from her first 17 starts, the daughter of So Secret has notched a winning hat trick since teaming up with Moss.
She romped home by five lengths at Bunbury and on Wednesday, notched her second straight win at Ascot.
Dropping back from 2200m to 1800m and against her usual pattern when outside of the leader, she won stylishly.
Winning is currency for any trainer, but for a recent addition to the training ranks it has added value.
Despite the emergence of Secret Pearl under his direction, Moss is quick to downplay his role.
“I think it’s a question of maturity,” Moss told The Races WA.
“From both a mental and physical perspective.
“She was slow to develop, but is coming into her own now.”
Secret Pearl’s rise as a staying prospect has mirrored Moss’ growing confidence as a trainer.
Just 12-months after branching out on his own he is beginning to feel more comfortable in his new role.
“She has inspired me to keep going,” Moss said.
“You have your doubts and go through ups and downs when you start out against experienced trainers, but I have had great mentors.
“Sharon Miller and Anne King gave me the encouragement to go out on my own and give it a go.
“That gave me a lot of faith and confidence to think I can go to an elite level.
“It’s great to go to work and do something that you love every day.”
In work since July, Moss is hoping to get one more run out of Secret Pearl before she is tipped out for a deserved spell.
On her resumption, Moss will up the ante and raise sights on feature staying events.
“I was going to tip her out a few runs ago, but she is tough,” Moss said.
“I will push ahead and get at least another one out of her, maybe even look at a Saturday.
“I will then look at country cups next year, something like the Bunbury Cup.”
Julio Santarelli