Group win aids reinsman's mental health battle
FOR Jayden Barker it is easier heard than believed, but one thing the young man can be assured of is "he is good enough!"
At Tabcorp Park Melton last night Barker proved he has what it takes to compete at a high level by capturing the Tatlow Stakes.
Barker drove Rockinwithattitude to perfection to capture the Group Two, which doubled as the reinsman's biggest triumph within the industry.
The moment led to descriptions such as the almost cliché "emotional", "much-needed" or "the perfect tonic" win.
For Barker the milestone goes a lot deeper - it reminds him he not only has what it takes to be successful in harness racing, but in life!
As satisfying as Rockinwithattitude's win is it falls short of Barker's greatest achievement as a person.
Like so many Barker is hampered by depression and anxiety, which to those unaffected doesn't seem to be a big deal, but to those experiencing the conditions, it can be debilitating.
Barker's journey into the mental health issues began as a teenager, leading his first stint of hospitalization when he was 17.
"The first incident was when I was laying in bed overthinking and started breathing heavily," Barker recalled. "My chest got tight, I couldn't open my hands through lack of oxygen and felt like I was having a heart attack.
"In just a short period it got a lot worse to the point it took control of me and was a very difficult experience.
"I spent a bit of time in hospital for my own safety."
Working vigilantly to regain control of life, Barker was bolstered through assistance from family and friends before turning to horses.
Gaining his driver's licence during the 2016/17 season, Barker has no doubt his equine support system has been a major contributor to his improved disposition.
"I worked hard to get back into the world and horses have really helped reset me," Barker said. "Horses are very therapeutic to be around, plus routine of stable life helps a lot.
"Anxiety attacks can still happen a little more often than I'd like, but I've got more control of it.
"I use various techniques and ways to calm myself down and now instead of being effected for a week or two it can take a couple of hours or a day."
As for his time in the spotlight with Rockinwithattitude, Barker guided the filly to a narrow win from Susan Is Her Name and Valerie Lane in 2:00.5 over 2240 metres.
Rockinwithattitude is trained by David Miles, who Barker works for as a stablehand.
"It's a bit surreal to win a Group Two," Barker said. "A win like that gives me a lot of confidence knowing I can do it as sometimes I just don't think I'm good enough.
"I've been driving her since she’s come from the breakers and I have been very fortunate David and her owners have allowed me to keep driving her."
To be given "a few easy days" Rockinwithattitude will then head to Maryborough for the Group One Redwood Classic in a fortnight.
"I'm looking forward to driving her in the Redwood," Barker said. "It would be a dream to win a Group One, especially with this filly."
Hoping to enjoy his share of glory as reinsman, Barker dreams of training a team in years to come.
"I really like driving, but sometimes the pressure can come into it," Barker said. "Training is something I want to do down the track.
"Obviously I'd like to be another David Miles...I have to say that because not only do I work for him, but he is in the car with me!"
Those feeling the effects of mental health can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or can click here.
