Carlton star Patrick Cripps (Image: Racing Photos)
Carlton captain Patrick Cripps might be best known for his achievements in the AFL, but the Western Australian has a deep family connection that spans generations to another sport: horse racing.
"My nana was Sally Oakes, her mother was one of the pioneers of WA racing," Cripps explained to Racing.com.
"My nana was a thoroughbred racehorse breeder in WA, so I always grew up with that sort of interest.
"Mum and Dad were both keen horse riders and then funnily enough, my older brother has a tipping service in WA now called Cripps Racing. He's got a bit of a passion for the horses, so I just sort of follow that and always like to be around it and go to the days.
"It's a bit of a back story but it's definitely followed through the genes."
Cripps was in attendance for the launch of The All-Star Mile at Federation Square on Monday afternoon and has thrown his support behind WA nominee Laced Up Heels, while he also has a connection to Mr Brightside through his former teammate Will Hayes.
"I think it's a great concept; the fans and the people get to vote; I think the novelty of that is pretty cool," Cripps said.
"Obviously, big prizemoney and you see the best of the best race, which is always good fun."
While Cripps and the Blues will take on Richmond at the MCG in the opening game of the AFL season on the Thursday night prior to The All-Star Mile, the reigning Brownlow medalist said he'll be trackside at The Valley for a special day on March 18.
"I think we've got recovery on the Saturday, so I'll go to that and then I'll duck over," Cripps said.
"It's actually my birthday that day, the family will be over, so we'll head to the races after that. I think we play Geelong the following Thursday, so I'll be pretty low key at the races."
For Cripps, it's events like The All-Star Mile and the return of the AFL season that represent the best side of his adopted home city.
"Everyone gets pretty excited for not only for the autumn racing but footy as well," he said.
"Once New Year's (Day) clicks over, everyone starts to get excited for the next events coming up, that's the best part about Melbourne."