If Georgia Grant needed prodding to take out her trainer’s license, she didn’t have to look too far for any encouragement.
Parker drew on inspiration and motivation from her family, who are steeped in racing tradition.
With racing in her blood it was only a matter of time before she was drawn to the sport.
Surrounded by horses growing up, Grant is following the same path trodden by her great grandfather and grandfather.
As long as she can remember it’s been her dream and ambition to continue a family tradition.
“From the time I was old enough to walk I recall being around my pop and horses,” Grant told The Races WA.
“He learnt from his father and I have been learning the ropes with him.
“I know my great grandfather trained horses in Perth and Pop’s in Esperance.
“I discussed training horses with pop and he was my motivator in going ahead and doing it.
“I’ve always been around horses, riding track work and running an agistment property, so it was going to happen at some stage.
“But it’s something I really wanted to do while my pop was fit enough to enjoy it and that made the decision easier.
“He is there every morning at track work and at every race meeting.
“He essentially taught me everything I know about horses and is my greatest supporter.”
At Esperance on Saturday, almost 12-months to the day before going out on her own and after seven placings from 14 starters, it all came together for Grant.
Continuing a family legacy, the 23-year-old secured her first training success with Husstarr.
And who would be one of the first to greet her at the winner’s enclosure?
“Pop was there straight away,” Grant said.
“He gave me a hug and congratulated me.
“It was pretty special to be able to share it with him.
“He was proud and it was so gratifying.
“I was extremely delighted; it was a big surprise.”
Often the bridesmaid, Husstarr kept Grant on tenterhooks before his 1600m maiden win.
Lifted to the line by jockey Simone Altieri, the four-year-old burst through and in a three way finish won by a neck.
“He is just a difficult horse, Grant said.
“He’s hard to ride, a barrier rogue and difficult to float.
“He’s a little bit naughty.”
Julio Santarelli