WINNING the 2013 Miracle Mile with a horse that he bred was the ultimate reward for Tasmanian harness trainer-driver and breeder Barrie Rattray.
That his son James Rattray drove and trained Beautide (Bettors Delight-Gorse Bush) last Saturday night to win the equal richest race on the Australasian Grand Circuit calendar was the icing on the cake.
Barrie Rattray is an icon of Tasmania’s harness industry and while there has always been plenty of rivalry on the track from fellow trainers and drivers, the incredible number of text messages and emails sent to him pre and post race almost left him speechless.
When James Rattray addressed the near capacity crowd at the presentation ceremony he made a point of telling all and sundry that it was a win for Tasmania as much as it was for the Rattray family.
Barrie Rattray is basically a humble man who has always been a deep thinker who has often been misread by the media.
When you are as passionate about an industry as he is then it is understandable that he wants to ensure that his and his family’s success rubs off on all who are involved in the industry on our island state.
James is of the same mould and that was clearly evidenced by his post-race speech.
Beautide has taken all Tasmanians on a wonderful journey this season and it continues in a fortnight when the gelding tackles the Group 1 Victoria Cup at Melton.
James confirmed Beautide would most likely have a break after the Victoria Cup and be prepared for the 2014 Inter Dominion series to be run at Menangle in March.
Listen to what Barrie Rattray had to say about Beautide’s win and what it means to his family.