Quick Questions – Getting to know Theresa Bateup

Well liked and successful Kembla Grange-based trainer Theresa Bateup kept scrapbooks of the weekend’s winners when she was a kid and her love of racing has been growing ever since. She answers our QUICK QUESTIONS…

What is your first memory of racing?

Attending Harden picnic races with my Dad when I was about 10 or 11. Mum worked at the TAB when I was growing up and I would go in on a Saturday afternoon after netball and would help put up the results and watch the races.

What is your favourite horse and why?

Super Impose. He was such a tough horse over a long time span and such an exciting horse to watch, the way he would hit the line. I have lost count of how many times I have watched his two Doncaster and Epsom wins and his Cox Plate. I got to meet him in the flesh in 1997 at his owner’s property in Victoria.

Who is the best horse you’ve been involved with?

Monegal.

And the best horse you have seen?

Winx.

Who do you admire most in racing?

There are so many people I admire in racing across all sectors who work very hard and have extensive knowledge. I love talking to people in the industry and continuing to learn. The jockey I most admired growing up was Darren Beadman and I have a lot of admiration for Joe Pride as a trainer.

Who is your “what if” horse?

Gunnaheadovski. A lovely big Headwater gelding who ran fourth on debut at Kensington and was plagued by soundness issues.

What is one change / improvement you’d love to see in racing?

The benchmark system in NSW. The disparity and inconsistency between country and provincial / metropolitan races makes it impossible to place some horses effectively.

What is the funniest moment you’ve experienced in racing?

When Alan won the Bateup Racing Handicap at Sapphire Coast in 2022. We have a video of his owners cheering him home and running across the lawn as he burst to the front and one of them throwing their handbag which went flying through the air. He returned to the scale to one of the biggest cheer squads ever seen at the Sapphire Coast. I still laugh every time I watch the video.

What is your favourite racing moment / biggest thrill?

Winning the Epona Stakes with Monegal (my first Group winner) and also the 2025 Bega Cup with Direct Fire. Other memorable days were getting four winners on one day at Sapphire Coast on 27 December 2020 and our first metro double on Gong Day in 2021.

What is your favourite pastime outside of racing?

Hanging out with friends.

What is your favourite TV show?

Chicago Fire.

Best concert you’ve seen?

Zac Brown Band.

What slogan summarizes your outlook on life?

With hard work and effort you can achieve anything.

Favourite food?

Chocolate.

Favourite racecourse?

Sapphire Coast.