Having Slater at the end of each race, McDonald said, gives the moment an extra spark.
“With his stature and what he’s achieved in sport, it’s a really good feeling cantering up next to him — he’s got street cred, hasn’t he?
He asks some brilliant questions, and it really added to the whole atmosphere. You can tell he loves it, and you feed off that vibe. You can’t help but be motivated.”
For Slater, the role was a natural fit. Combining his two lifelong passions — sport and horses — he brought genuine warmth and understanding to every interview. A devoted racing enthusiast, Slater and his wife Nicole run a small breeding operation, giving him a real appreciation for the industry and the animals at its heart. His relaxed style and horsemanship made him a hit with fans, and even after McDonald’s string of early wins during Cup Week, he kept the energy high — proving that the best post-race moments aren’t scripted, but shared.
