WINNING a race at New Norfolk is not usually high on driver James Austin’s agenda but on Monday he was very keen to get the prize in the second race at the club’s penultimate meeting of the season.
It was the Terry Austin Memorial, a race named in honour of the young reinsman’s grandfather who was a harness racing tragic who dedicated most of his life to the game.
The Austin name is synonymous with harness racing in Tasmania with James’ father Ken one of the most revered horsemen in the state.
James partnered Dieberdon in the Terry Austin Memorial and he emerged triumphant courtesy of a heady front-running drive.
“Winning this race named in Pop’s honour is brilliant,” Austin said.
“I knew we had a good chance of winning the race but he drew the pole and I was just a bit worried that he might not have enough zip to lead but he flew the gates and had no trouble holding the front.”
“He’s a top little horse that can run great sectionals like he did today and I’m happy to be on him in whatever race he tackles,” he said.
James now has delivered a unique gift to his parents Ken and Maxine.
Last year he guided Medieval Fantasy to victory at New Norfolk in the Pat Eiszele Memorial, a race named in honour of his mother’s Mum.
“I got the race photo of the Pat Eiszele Memorial and gave it to my Mum so I’ll get the race photo of this race and give it to Dad so they’ll have one each to hang on the wall at home,” he said..
Dieberdon, trained at Campania by Kevin Denny, is one of Tasmania’s most consistent three-year-olds with this latest win his fifth from 16 starts but he also has notched 10 minor placings.
Dieberdon is heading towards the Tasmanian derby in Hobart on March 28 but he is likely to have another run prior to that race.