Continuing our journey to positivity: Douglas Whyte
04/11/2020
The consummate professional. It’s how so many have described Douglas Whyte for so many years that it almost sounds like a cliche. Except that it’s not. That’s what he is: the consummate professional in the often cutthroat business that he’s in- horse racing.
The then-unknown South African rider arrived in Hong Kong to try his luck in this city at a time when another rider from his homeland- Basil Marcus- reigned supreme. He watched, learned, learned even more and went on to become Hong Kong’s Champion Jockey for thirteen consecutive years. It’s a record that will never be broken.
Today, Dougie calls himself a “battling trainer”. Hardly. And he knows he isn’t. Last season was his first in this new role after retiring from race riding. This was after winning everything there was to win, especially the respect of racing fans and racing executives. The transition has been smooth.
Just as he took control and made the Champion Hong Kong Jockey title his own, those who know his tremendous focus, commitment and determination to succeed in everything he takes on will never bet against him not being Champion trainer in this city that’s now his home. This will happen sooner rather than later. Bet on it.
Douglas Whyte has achieved much and seen it all. But, like all of us, nothing prepared him for all the many changes the world is going through these days.
When we caught up with each other last week, it was mainly these changes that were discussed. How they’ve impacted him in his role as husband to Nikki. As a father to daughter Sheikara and son Ethan.
We talked about how those life lessons learned from time spent with the legendary Horse Whisperer- Monty Roberts- had helped him through whatever it is we’re going through.
There was mention of his role in the changing landscape of horse racing. About much the sport has given him.
There’s then everything else going around the world of horse racing that’s a constant learning curve.
These are things that require special skills one can only learn through experience. By getting to the point of being able to see beyond what’s there in front of you. Not many in racing can do this.
Consummate professionals can because they intuitively know how to separate the chaff from the wheat.
Please enter a valid e-mail address
Get Our Latest Updates & Offers
The Hong Kong Jockey Club and its subsidiaries (together referred to as "the Club"; each "a Club Entity" in the Club's Privacy Policy Statement) intend to use your email to send you promotional updates regarding facilities, services, support, events and activities offered or arranged by the Club or a Club Entity, in areas specified in the Direct Marketing Section of the Club's Privacy Policy Statement. We may not so use your personal data unless we have received your consent.
In order to use our services, you must agree to our Terms of Service
Please Confirm
Verification Code:
-
Please enter the correct verification code