Victorian harness racing caller Luke Humphreys freely admits he’s living the dream on his “working holiday” in Europe – and who knows where it might end?
Humphreys is a self-confessed European racing fanatic, even to the extent of “calling” the Swedish Elitloppet for practice since he was 10 years old.
But this year it was for real. When Victorian star square gaiter Just Believe (Orlando Vici) accepted the invitation to compete in “The Elite Race” at Solvalla, Humphreys jumped at the opportunity to bring the color and excitement of the occasion to Australian audiences.
Just Believe struck trouble and galloped at the top of the straight in his qualifier, but Humphreys’ obsessive research and his understanding of European racing was evident in his coverage.
Despite the disappointment Humphreys said the experience was, nonetheless, “unbelievably surreal” and he considered himself extremely lucky.
“Just Believe flew our flag high, despite having no luck whatsoever,” Humphreys said.
“Elitlopp is a must for any trotting or racing fan – I already want to start going back every year,” he said.
Humphrey’s European experience didn’t end with Sweden.
The first thing the next morning, he flew to Paris to call a few races from the Equidia Studio in Paris (the equivalent of Sky Channel) as a guest of former Australian and now UK-based Arthur Cooper.
Then it was on to Vincennes, and last weekend Humphreys attended both the French Derby at picturesque Chantilly and the UK Derby at Epsom – where either black or grey “morning dress” with a top hat is obligatory.
“It’s been an incredible experience and I know how lucky I am. If the stars aligned one day, I wouldn’t rule out moving over here for work,” he said.
But it’ll be back down to earth on Monday when Humphreys touches down in Melbourne.
“I’ll be off to call Ararat trots on Wednesday night and on Friday afternoon Mildura – so one week from now I’ll be back in the Sunraysia!” Humphreys laughed.
by Terry Gange, for Harnesslink