Source: The Industry School
A new chapter begins in the storied partnership between Chris Waller Racing (CWR) and The Industry School’s Equine Academy, as Year 10 student Harry Cahill steps into the spotlight. This term, Harry commenced his school-based traineeship as a Racing Track Work Rider at Chris Waller’s Gold Coast stables, an exciting milestone in his journey toward becoming a professional jockey. Harry is the third school-based trainee to join the CWR team from the Equine Academy, but the first to take on the role as trainee trackwork rider.
Harry’s ambition is deeply rooted in family legacy. He is the son of legendary jockey Michael Cahill, whose extraordinary career spanned over four decades and left an indelible mark on Australian racing. Michael’s journey began with a win on Melbourne Cup Day in Orange, 1980, and culminated in an astonishing 2,864 career victories, including seven Group 1 triumphs. His most iconic wins include the Stradbroke Handicap aboard St Basil in 2005 and two Doomben 10,000 titles—one with Falvelon in 2001 and another with The Bostonian in 2019. Internationally, Michael found success in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Macau, where he claimed the prestigious Macau Derby in 2003. Retiring from race riding in 2025, Michael is continuing to shape the sport as a mentor in Racing Queensland’s Apprentice Jockey Program, and now, as a guiding force in his son’s career.
Having grown up immersed in the rhythm of the racetrack, Harry’s passion for the industry was inevitable. His decision to join The Industry School’s Equine Academy in early 2025 was a natural progression, allowing him to gain hands-on experience while completing his education. Through the Academy’s unique structure, Harry will dedicate 28 weeks each year to his traineeship and 20 weeks to academic studies, graduating with his QCE and Year 12 completion.
With the mentorship of one of Australia’s most respected jockeys and the support of Chris Waller Racing and The Industry School, Harry Cahill is poised to make his mark. Watch this space, he’s not just following in legendary footsteps; he’s carving his own path to greatness.