In a tale straight out of a racing romance novel, Sydney's prestigious Royal Randwick racecourse has become the backdrop for an unexpected love story that's capturing hearts across the racing community. The setting was the coveted Golden Eagle race day, but the real prize turned out to be something far more personal.
From Professional Acquaintances to Personal Partners
Jay Ford, an accomplished professional jockey with numerous victories to his name, and Mingle Assimy, a respected racing steward, had known each other professionally for years through their shared involvement in the horse racing circuit. Their interactions had always remained strictly professional—until one fateful day changed everything.
"We'd been circling each other professionally for about three years," Ford revealed to Daily Mail Australia. "There was always that professional barrier there, but the attraction was definitely mutual from early on."
The Moment Everything Changed
The turning point came unexpectedly when Assimy made the first move, reaching out to Ford via social media. What began as casual messaging quickly evolved into something deeper, proving that sometimes love finds its way through the most modern of channels.
"She slid into my DMs, as the kids say," Ford shared with a smile. "We started chatting and quickly realised there was something special between us that went beyond the racetrack."
Navigating the Challenges of Track Romance
Their budding relationship presented unique challenges within the close-knit racing community. As a steward, Assimy holds significant responsibility in ensuring racing integrity and compliance—a role that could potentially create conflicts with her personal life.
However, both professionals have approached their relationship with maturity and transparency. "We're both very conscious of maintaining professional boundaries when we're working," Ford explained. "But away from the track, we're just two people who've found something really special."
A Shared Passion for Racing
Their common ground in horse racing has become a strength rather than a complication. Both understand the demands and pressures of the racing lifestyle—the early mornings, the travel, and the intense focus required for their respective roles.
"Having someone who truly understands what your career entails makes all the difference," Ford noted. "Mingle gets why I have to watch my weight, why I might be stressed before a big race—it's not something you have to explain."
Looking Toward the Future
While both remain focused on their demanding careers, they're also enjoying building their relationship away from the public eye. Their story serves as a charming reminder that sometimes the most valuable connections happen when we least expect them—even in the highly competitive world of professional horse racing.
As the racing season continues, this track-side romance adds a delightful human element to the sport, proving that while trophies and prize money come and go, finding genuine connection remains life's greatest victory.
