6 Nov 2025

NZ Sporting History: Horse trainer Sheila Laxon

From Afternoons, 2:30 pm on 6 November 2025

It's Melbourne Cup week and we're thrilled to have trainer Sheila Laxon with us.

In 2001, Sheila was the first female trainer to win the Melbourne Cup, with a horse named Ethereal. 

Last year she became the first woman to win it twice when Knight's Choice crossed the line first.

The success doesn't stop there, earlier this year she was honored at the NZ Thoroughbred Racing Awards.

Sheila chats to Jesse.

Sheila Laxon pats her Melbourne Cup winning horse Ethereal.

Sheila Laxon pats her Melbourne Cup winning horse Ethereal. Photo: Supplied - Sheila Laxon