12 September 2018 | Harrison Kitt
Michael Smith drove The Dutchman, trained by his father David Smith and previously driven by grandfather Alan Smith, to an emotional win on Monday’s fourth race during the meeting at Globe Derby Park.
The grandson of the recently passed prominent racing identity, Alan Smith, suggested in a heartfelt response that the feeling was amazing. “It was my best win ever because it meant so much to me.”
Michael honoured his grandfather’s legacy by winning on the same horse that Alan stunningly won two races on in one week in February 2017 at the age of 81. Prior to this incredible feat the family also achieved a race trifecta in May 2016 at Globe Derby Park, with David placing first on Twiggy Argyle, Michael in second on Major Stature and the 80 year old Alan on Strathmore Queen. Astonishingly they realised the trifecta again on the 23rd January 2017 at Kapunda. Again on Monday, both Michael and David placed in the same race; with David coming second on Drinktous Wroxton during race four.
“I felt confident but started getting emotional down the final straight.” It meant a lot for Michael to drive in his grandfather Alan’s colours, “I would love to take them home to remember my grandpa.” The excitement and emotion of the family could barely be contained as they watched Michael cross the line in Alan’s silks as he gave his first salute. “It was fantastic. I’m sure grandpa was up there watching too.”
Alan had trained for The Dutchmen’s owner Rod Pollock for over ten years, but now his son David would take on the duty as The Dutchman’s trainer. David expressed that, “It was special to win that race. It was just good to get that horse going good as my father had him, that’s been the main aim. I think today proved that, the fourth generation won the race today.”
“It was pretty emotional after he’d (Michael) went past the line, my Dad would be saying up there, that’s good! Don’t worry about me. Just keep doing it!” “I had my grandfather’s (Frank Smith driver/trainer of all-time great Minor Derby) colours and now we have my dad’s colours. We’ll keep using these colours on our horses but mainly on this one (The Dutchman)”.
“We are proud the horse can keep going for us and proud of the colours!”
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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