I’ve lost count of the number of people who’ve queried the whereabouts of Michael Clarke over the last decade. Michael retired in 2002, but actually rode the last 6 or 7 years of his career overseas. It’s a quarter of a century since M.Clarke’s name appeared in race books and form guides in Australia.

Old friends have been delighted to see him back at the races lately, to monitor the progress of his son, brilliant apprentice Michael Poy.

I’m thrilled to have Michael on the podcast this week. He talks about his son’s career, and reflects on his own wonderful years he in racing.

In part 1 Michael goes back to his accidental meeting with Colin Hayes, and his association with the master trainer. He comprehensively traces his partnership with the great horse Better Loosen Up, and highlights some of his best performances.

Hope you enjoy a trip down memory lane with Michael Clarke.