07 June 2021 | Paul Courts
VETERAN horsewoman Gaita Pullicino couldn’t help but reminisce after Saturday night’s record result at Globe Derby.
Winning three races as a driver, Pullicino’s treble was a part of history as each event was won by a reinswoman – the first time the ‘fairer sex’ has completed a clean sweep of an Australian meeting open to all comers!
“Very proud” to play a role in the record-breaking occasion, Pullicino reflected on a time when women were frowned upon as drivers.
A pioneer in the fight for equal rights, Pullicino was the first Victorian-licensed reinswoman to win a race against the men.
To do achieve the feat the young Pullicino had to travel over the border to Albury.
Debra Moss was the first woman to beat the blokes in Australia, which she achieved with Darwin Boy in Hawkesbury on December 22, 1977.
“In those days some of the men didn’t want to race against us,” Pullicino recalled. “We got a lot of resistance when it came to being allowed to drive against the men.
“Even after we were given permission we’d still get comments like ‘go back to the kitchen’ or ‘you should be home making dinner or babies’ while in the parade ring and out on the track.
“Some argued we wouldn’t be capable of controlling horses, while others even claimed punters wouldn’t bet on women.
“I remember begging my father to take a horse to Albury so I could drive against the men and get my first win because New South Wales had already allowed women to drive in all races.
“To see so many amazing female drivers winning the biggest races, winning premierships and breaking records makes all those early battles worthwhile.”
Pullicino’s treble, which came behind Illusionation, Bet Im Special and Thebattlesjusbegan, was matched by Dani Hill’s three wins.
One of those who have smashed records, won major races and premierships, Hill was victorious with Joes A Character, Ceejay Success and Gatesys Alley.
Tiana McMahon chimed in with a win behind Uncle Leo.
As for those who felt women simply weren’t tough enough to handle the grit required to be success, they obviously never anticipated Hill.
Hill’s battles with injury have been well documented, yet she bounces back as good, if not better, than before.
“What a wonderful night for women,” Hill said. “To be a part of such a standout night is just terrific and something I will never forget.
“Us ladies are getting the spotlight for our drives, but let’s not forget two women also trained winners on the night.”
Yvette Zitterbart prepares Joes A Character, while Thebattlesjusbegan is trained by Rebecca Geurds.
- PAUL COURTS
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