Australia’s oldest jockey, Keith Ballard, at 71 years old, is preparing for his final sprint before retirement. Hailing from Mount Isa, Ballard has had a remarkable 55-year career, starting back in 1969 when he rode his first winner. Growing up around racetracks due to his father’s involvement, Ballard’s passion for horse racing was ingrained from a young age.
Throughout his illustrious career, Ballard has notched up nearly 2,000 wins, competing predominantly on rural tracks. His successes include victories in prestigious races like the Darwin Cup, Birdsville Cup, and the Cleveland Bay Handicap. Despite the physical toll of over five decades in the saddle, Ballard’s determination and love for the sport have never waned.
Known in the industry as KB, Ballard has faced numerous challenges, including severe injuries that could have prematurely ended his career. A fall near McKinlay left him with broken legs, forcing him out of the saddle for nine months. Despite the setbacks, Ballard’s resilience and unwavering dedication to horse racing have seen him through.
Not just a jockey, Ballard comes from a family deeply rooted in the racing world. His wife, Denise, is a horse trainer, and his son, Dan, followed in his footsteps as a jockey. The Ballard family’s contributions to racing were recognized in 2021 when they were inducted into the Queensland Racing Hall of Fame. Dan Ballard, reflecting on his father’s legacy, praised Keith for his work ethic, competitive spirit, and integrity.
As Keith Ballard prepares to hang up his riding boots, family remains at the forefront of his retirement plans. While he will miss the adrenaline rush of racing, he looks forward to spending more time with his grandchildren and tending to his garden. Despite bidding farewell to professional racing, Ballard will continue to work with horses, maintaining his connection to the sport he loves.
The racing community will pay tribute to Keith Ballard at his final race meet in Mount Isa, where he will be honored for his remarkable career. As Australia’s oldest active jockey, Ballard leaves behind a legacy that spans generations and serves as an inspiration to aspiring jockeys and racing enthusiasts alike.
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