Her Majesty’s trainer, Michael Bell has been training in the historic yard of Fitzroy House (Newmarket) for over 25 years. His horse Big Orange is one of the top favourites for the Melbourne Cup, after placing fifth last year. This year, in just four starts, Big Orange has won Princess Of Wales Stakes, (G2, 2400m) at Newmarket & the Goodwood Cup (3200m) and second in the Dubai Gold Cup (G2, 3200m) at Meydan and third in the Jockey Club Cup (G2, 2400m) at Newmarket.
Secretariat’s World gets an exclusive interview ahead of some exciting few weeks at Fitzroy House.
Q – How’s Big Orange doing now? Where is he?
A – He’s doing very well. He’s in quarantine at Newmarket and is expected to fly to Melbourne on Thursday via Amsterdam, Dubai. We are very excited. (Big Orange will then spend another two weeks at the international quarantine centre at Werribee before their release five days before the Cup.)
Q – You were concerned about his (Handicapping) weight a few weeks ago. What is the situation now?
A – We are very pleased that Big Orange has 56kg in the $6 million Melbourne Cup at Flemington on November 1, which is just half a kilo more than he carried last year.
Q – Any horses you are concerned about?
A – Godolphin’s Hartnell has just been made favourite. He is a great horse and he’s on home ground.
Q- How’s Big Orange in comparison? What are your expectations from him this year?
A – He has matured from 4 to 5 this year. He looks to have improved from 2015 as he won the same two races this year at Newmarket and Goodwood, but in more impressive fashion. We expect a big run from him in the Melbourne Cup.
Q - Where does your horse take you next after The Melbourne Cup?
A- We plan to take him to Dubai for the Dubai Gold Cup again or the Sheema Classic. But nothing has been finalised yet.
Q – Tell us about Big Orange. What type of horse is he?
A – He’s a kind horse. He gives it his all, wears his heart on his sleeve. He’s a courageous front runner. He’s a joy to train with a fantastic attitude.
Q – What was your experience last year at the Melbourne Cup? What was the atmosphere like?
A – It was my first time last year and it was an Amazing Experience. The Melbourne Cup is a huge event and the country literally stops for the day. It’s a massive social event. The liver needs a lot of practice to keep up with the socialising. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Q - What's your favourite part about being in the Thoroughbred racing space?
A – I’ve always loved being involved with horses as I was brought up with them. I also get to meet fascinating people. The owners are very wealthy and extraordinary people who love their horses.
Q - Who are your all-time favourite five horses?
A – My personal favourites are:
Q – Did you get a chance to get out to Melbourne city? What did you enjoy about the place?
A- Honestly, as a trainer, I hardly got a chance to see the city much. I was very busy last year, shuttling between the hotel and the stables. We stayed at The Crown Hotel as it was very convenient. We did go into some of the fabulous hotels within the hotel. The one I remember well was a Japanese restaurant called Nobu. We were guests of Lanfranco Dettori. I loved the evening.
Q – One final question, tell us a bit more about your family.
A – I have four children. Amy, my eldest daughter is in corporate entertainment. Alex my oldest son is a football agent. Nick’s my youngest son, is a racing agent and is part owner in a syndicate (Wildcard Racing). And my youngest daughter – Emily is an infant at two years. (Unfortunately wife, Clare won’t be joining Michael in Melbourne as the baby is still too young to travel).