The mounting yard at Ascot for the Group 1 Railway Stakes is a far cry from the dirt track about 900km north of Perth at Tessa Daly’s hometown of Carnarvon.
However, Racing WA TV's new Mounting Yard Analyst, feels right at home when casting her eye over thoroughbreds searching for feature race success.
Tessa, the daughter of twelve-time leading Carnarvon trainer Peter Daly, recently joined the Racing WA broadcast team to provide analysis from the yard for the WA thoroughbred coverage, which is showcased live and free on 7plus.
Having taken on the role leading into the TABtouch Pinnacles, Tessa barely had a trial run before covering the Champion Fillies Day at Ascot in her first week.
"It was daunting at first, and I think I can be my own worst critique, but when I get around the horses and start talking, I feel more comfortable," she said.
"I've always ended up with a microphone in my hand at the races – hosting events like the Calcutta or Fashions on the Field it's something I've always loved."
While new to this role in-front of camera, Tessa has always had an infatuation for horses, helping her dad in the stables from a young age.
"Ever since I could walk or talk, I've just loved the animal and always wanted to be involved," Tessa said.
"As a kid I always had 'horse flu' at school and would travel with dad along the countryside to the race meetings."
Growing up in Carnarvon, Tessa remains a member of the Carnarvon Race Club committee.
"I want to continue to promote country racing as well, that's my bread and butter – where I started out and where my love for horses grew," she said.
Racing has never been far from the forefront of Tessa's life, being the clerk of the course in Carnarvon for nine years, and pretraining for her dad, then into ownership with her family as soon as she became an adult.
"My dad has always been an inspiration it's amazing how many people I've met so far who know him", Tessa said.
"I'd like to be able to share in his legacy and do his name justice – it's a pretty special thing to be a part of."
Her hands-on passion still rings true, recently working as racing manager and foreperson for trainer Dion Luciani and continuing to ride trackwork for Mack Hall at Ascot, which means 4am starts most mornings.
In front of the lens, Tessa has drawn inspiration from international presenter Francesca Cumani, and also looks to fellow Racing WA presenters Lochie Taylor and Scott Embry as well as the success of Brittany Taylor.
"They all do such amazing jobs – I love that I'm able to be a part of it and start doing what I love, being able to promote the sport," she said.
"I think no matter what you do you'll have some people that are going to knock you, but you have to rise above that."
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