Hobby trainer gearing up for 2025 Five Diamonds assault

Truck driver and hobby trainer Craig Cousins will experience the biggest race of his training career when The Inflictor contests the $2 million Five Diamonds at Rosehill.

“I’m excited — and usually when I get excited and nervous, he races well,” Cousins said.

His stable consists of just three horses housed behind his 90-year-old mother’s home in Brisbane, but The Inflictor has flown the flag proudly.

The gelding has already earned over $700,000, including a Listed victory in the Tattersall’s Mile and a heartwarming third at Randwick in the Five Diamonds Prelude.

“That day meant the world to me. To go to Randwick and see him do that — I’ll never forget it,” Cousins said.

The Inflictor now rises to 1800m for the first time, but jockey Alysha Collett is confident.

“She told me she’ll ride him to get the trip. That gave me a lot of confidence,” Cousins said.

With The Inflictor lining up alongside horses from powerhouse stables, Cousins is simply grateful to be there.

“Just being in the race is a privilege. Top three would be amazing.”

If you’re betting on Rosehill this weekend, view the Australian betting sites list to compare offers.