University studies? No. A retail job? Not for her. Nursing or accounting? Never on the cards.

For as long as she can remember, Giaan O’Donnell knew there was only one career she wanted to pursue after school.

She never needed advice from career counselors—her future was already written, guided by her deep-rooted love of horses and a family steeped in racing history.

With her father a champion jockey, O’Donnell was determined to follow in his footsteps, and now, her lifelong dream is becoming a reality as she prepares for her much-anticipated apprentice jockey debut at Pinjarra on Thursday.

Her face may be new to the riding ranks, but her name is already well known in Perth racing circles.

It’s been a long road for the 22-year-old, but the moment she’s worked towards since childhood is finally here.

“I’m beyond thrilled,” O’Donnell told Racing WA.

“It’s like my childhood dream coming true. I’ve always wanted to be a jockey.

“I was always at the races with dad, trying to get days off school just to watch him ride.

“It’s taken a long time, but now that it’s happening, I can’t even put into words how excited I am.”

While some children of elite athletes feel the weight of expectations, O’Donnell embraces the challenge and sees it as an inspiration rather than a burden.

Her father, Shaun O’Donnell, is a multiple Group 1-winning jockey with close to 2000 victories, known for his skill, determination, and resilience in a sport that has given him both triumphs and setbacks.

Having seen his career firsthand, O’Donnell knows the highs and lows that come with life in the saddle. Now, she’s eager to carve out her own path while continuing the family tradition.

“It means the world to me to be out there riding with him,” O’Donnell said.

“He’s taught me so much and has been by my side every step of the way.

“His understanding of horses is something I’ll never be able to fully grasp—he’s just a genius with them.

“And his passion for the sport is incredible. He’s exactly the kind of jockey I aspire to be.

“