Many racegoers across western Victoria would have witnessed Miss Gray as the Clerk of the Course at some of the largest race meetings in the area.

In 2018 Miss Gray was given an opportunity of a lifetime – to be the first female Clerk of the Course at Flemington during the spring carnival.

“I've been told I am the first female Clerk of the Course at Flemington ever. I am working my way through the history to make sure of that title,” she said.

Miss Gray will ride her horse, Snowy at Oaks Day on Thursday, November 8 after receiving a phone call from her employer, Racing Victoria.

“It kind of quickly happened and of course I jumped at the chance,” she said.

“It’s a special day being known as Ladies Day. I’m really honoured to be asked to work at Flemington and I know it’s extra special for it to be on Oaks Day.

“It is a big achievement and a great example of roles females have within the industry.”

The 21-year-old has been a Clerk of the Course for about five years.

She began her career following in her dad, Peter Gray, a former trainer and also a career Clerk of the Course in the Wimmera.

“I used to tag along with dad to race meets and my passion for the role grew from there,” she said.

“I grew up in the racing industry my whole life. The environment of working with people in the industry is what I love the most.”

Although Miss Gray said there isn’t much to do in the lead up for it, she’s gained confidence from her experience working at some big meetings.

“Snowy and I have worked at big race days in the region, such as Ballarat Cup and other cups which have big crows such as Dunkeld and Avoca,” she said.

“The large crowd and the noise is something I will be putting at the back of my mind and concentrate on performing my role.”

Miss Gray said it will be a long day as she will travel with her mother to the course on the day and get Snowy saddled up on her arrival.

“It will be like a normal day at work for Snow and I. I am looking forward to sharing the experience on the day with him,” Miss Gray said.