Seymour’s Hope Racing gears up for cup day challenge

By Adam Miller

Oct 3, 2024

Vivanti, ridden by Tahlia Hope, wins the Seymour RSL Sub Branch 3YO Maiden Plate at Seymour last year. Photo: Brett Holburt/Racing Photos Photo by Brett Holburt

A Seymour trainer with four generations of horse training flowing through his veins is preparing for Seymour Cup day on October 13.

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For Shannon Hope, the chance for his 22-horse-strong Hope Racing to take on the state’s biggest and strongest organisations on home turf is always an exciting opportunity.

The community is gearing up for this year’s Seymour Gold Cup. Photo by Holly Curtis

“The track at Seymour is sensational and always produces highly entertaining racing among an excellent field,” Hope said.

Renee Clydesdale and Jesse Duell enjoy a day out at Seymour Racing Club. Photo by Megan Fisher

Despite the track being 100km north of Melbourne, Hope said the biggest trainers in the state were making the trip up the Hume Hwy, which had led to higher-quality races and increased prize money.

“To win at home would mean something to the family and organisation, but it will be tough — nothing comes easy in the industry,” he said.

Freddy Mac, ridden by Tahlia Hope, wins the Haeusler’s BM64 Handicap at Seymour last year. Photo: Racing Photos Photo by Pat Scala

Mentored by his grandpa and father, Hope feels great pride that his daughter Tahlia has followed him into the family business as a jockey.

While taking a break from race riding this season to focus on equestrian pursuits, Tahlia has been highly successful as a jockey, with 238 wins since making her debut in 2015, including wins at a Group 3 and listed level.

Fashions on the field is always a highlight of a great day out at the racing. Photo by Holly Curtis

While the racing industry is not the easiest of professions, Hope would not have it any other way.

"It is a tough gig getting up at 3am every day, but we love it, and the horses mean the absolute world to all of us,“ he said.

Hope’s years of dedication have clearly paid off, with 525 career wins on his resume, including one Group 1, three Group 2, and seven Group 3s among 4279 starts.