Billy Slater impressed viewers across the nation while covering the Melbourne Cup carnival for Channel Nine.
The NRL legend was seen interviewing jockeys who secured victories on Derby Day and during the Melbourne Cup at Flemington on Tuesday, earning widespread praise from fans on social media.
However, Slater encountered a minor hiccup on Melbourne Cup day when he had to continue his interview with jockey James McDonald after yet another win.
Half-jokingly, Slater mentioned that he had run out of questions after McDonald had secured victories in two of the first three races, marking seven wins in the first three days of the carnival.
McDonald demonstrated why he is regarded as one of the best jockeys in the world with a remarkable performance in the Red Roses Stakes (1100m) on Thursday.
Wearing the renowned silks of Winx’s champion trainer Chris Waller, McDonald narrowly defeated $11 contender Amelita to claim the Group 3 race by three-quarters of a length over Vestas.
The 32-year-old jockey now has the opportunity to extend his record with a 10th Carnival Cup win, as he rides multiple horses on Champions Stakes Day at Flemington on Saturday.
Despite this prospect, McDonald said he isn’t focused on breaking his own record.
“Honestly, we have a long way to go,” McDonald told reporters on Friday. “There are three draws and four wins left.
I have a strong book of rides, and when everything comes together, it’s a lot of fun. Yesterday, we had three second-place finishes, which went against us.”
“It was a bit of a disappointing day until the final races. I had a few close seconds that could have gone either way.
But I’m looking forward to tomorrow and can appreciate the competition.”
Top jockey James McDonald also praised Billy Slater for his coverage, describing it as a major highlight of the carnival.
All eyes at Flemington will be on McDonald as fans eagerly anticipate whether Slater can continue making his mark on Australian racing history.
Known not only for his NRL achievements, Slater is a former track jockey and now runs a thoroughbred farm with his wife, Nicole.
McDonald acknowledged that Slater’s passion and understanding of horse racing brought valuable insights to Nine Network’s coverage.
McDonald likened the Melbourne Cup carnival to the State of Origin series for jockeys and noted that Slater was uniquely positioned to grasp the event’s significance.
The 32-year-old jockey added that it was a privilege to share his success with someone he admired and regarded as one of modern rugby league’s greats.
“From a personal standpoint, it was incredible,” said McDonald. “He’s one of the best athletes I’ve ever seen, so he truly understands what it’s all about.
This is our version of Origin, and he really captures that spirit and excitement. It’s definitely an honor and privilege to speak with him after the race.”
