Former Waikato jumps jockey Greg Cave has achieved a couple of milestones in Australia within the past few weeks.
Cave (57) was granted his trainer’s license in Perth this year and celebrated his first training success when Patristic (Patronize) won at Northam on August 27, then he saddled up the same horse to give him his first city win at Belmont last Saturday.
“I was confident because he ran third last start and improved on that run,” Cave said. “I thought he was on his game today, but he will be better next time.”
Cave trains Patristic for owner Jane Busslinger, who had previously prepared the horse for a handful of wins.
“It’s always been back of mind to give it a go (training),” Cave said. “I’ve got a couple of owners who’ve got a few horses they are keen for me to try. I’ve got seven in work.”
Cave has been in Western Australia for 10 years after years earlier establishing himself in New Zealand as a jumps jockey and long-term employee of Graeme Rogerson’s stable.
His early victories in the saddle included wins in the 1987 Wellington Hurdles on Rosenveld and the 1993 Pakuranga Hunt Cup on Cooberex, while his association with Rogerson saw him ride many of the stable’s jumpers, including the 1989 Great Northern Hurdles (4190m) winner Noble Heritage in his maiden hurdles victory.
“Rogey was a good mentor,” Cave said when recalling his successful days riding in New Zealand.
