Inspired: By VAIN from THOUGHT 1981

Featured Image: Michael Jeffery Portrait Private Collection

Inspired has a strong connection with the Upper Hunter Valley by association. Bred by Simon and Jill Nivison (nee Tait) from Walcha Inspired was foaled at Kia Ora Stud. His ‘heavy physique and boisterous nature’ (Bob Charley) persuaded his breeders to ‘make the unkindest cut of all’ at an early age.

It proved to be a prescient decision. Inspired emulated his sire Vain and maternal grandsire Todman in winning the Golden Slipper Stakes at Rosehill (in 1984). The victory was not without its share of drama. Inspired had suffered an injury in an earlier race leaving a floating piece of bone in his off-hind leg. Fellow veterinarian Norm Teague performed a successful and delicate standing operation under sedation and local anaesthetic. Inspired was passed fit for action by trainer Theo Green. In all Inspired started seven times as a 2yo, winning three, second on three occasions and one unplaced run in the AJC Sires Produce Stakes. Inspired was ridden in his early races by aspiring Theo Green apprentice Darren Beadman. As a 4yo Inspired won the Theo Marks Quality (1400m) and Group I George Main Stakes (1600m) before retiring after suffering a tendon injury.

Both the Nivison and Tait families are virtual ‘royalty’ in NSW country racing annals. Inspired’s victory in the world’s richest 2yo race was a fitting tribute to the dedication and application of both dynasties. Simon Nivison was a close school friend of Bim Thompson from Widden; hence the booking of Thought to Vain. All were great supporters of racing at Scone featuring many memorable victories in important races. Tragically Simon died far too young as did Bim Thompson. Both made huge contributions to the very essence of rural life; emulating and even exceeding their fathers. I’m proud to have known both very well.