Kyneton-based trainer Charles Cassar has led a fascinating life. Arriving in Australia from Malta in 1975, he once had ambitions of becoming a rock star — even supplementing his income in the early days of training by playing in bands at night. Let’s learn more about him!
What is your first racing memory?
My first racing memory was watching Kingston Town win his third W.S Cox Plate, I think I was 12 or 13 at the time.
Who is your favourite horse and why?
Ortayga, he won six in Melbourne and ten all up.
Who is the best horse you’ve been involved with?
Rocky Sprent, a very fast horse unfortunately plagued by injury.
And the best horse you have seen?
Black Caviar.
Who do you admire most in racing?
All those who started with nothing and carved their names into racing history; probably no better example than T.J. Smith.
Who is your ‘what if’ horse?
Probably Atlantic Mist; she had a freakish turn of foot but I just couldn’t keep her sound.
What is one change/improvement you’d love to see in racing?
More structured pathways for retiring racehorses.
Which horse currently racing would you love to train?
Ka Ying Rising.
What’s the funniest moment you’ve experienced in racing?
A mate and a stable employee were taking one to the Warracknabeal races for me many moons ago. I gave them $100 to buy lunch and have the rest on the horse for themselves. They skipped lunch and had $50 each-way with the horse winning at 70/1. Needless to say it was a big night!
What is your favourite racing moment/biggest thrill?
Probably Per Sempre’s recent Flemington win.
What is your favourite pastime outside of racing?
An afternoon spent at a good winery with friends.
What is your favourite T.V show?
Yellowstone.
Best concert you’ve seen?
Cold Chisel back in their day.
What slogan summarizes your outlook on life?
Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
Favourite food?
Ravioli.
Favourite racecourse?
Moonee Valley 😪
If you weren’t a racehorse trainer what would you be doing?
Playing in a band.