Barnes honours idols

McKAYLER Barnes grew up in the Penrith district alongside her dad, Kyle Barnes and the larger-than-life harness racing identity Peter Sullivan.

Both men were astute horsemen who have sadly passed away in recent years, leaving a void in McKayler’s life.

But she admits that she learned so much about horses from both men and that she has fond memories of her life growing up around them.

These days McKayler only has the occasional drive in races but on Saturday night at Tabcorp Park Menangle she showed that she has lost none of the skill she acquired from her mentors when, for the second time, she took out the Kari JC Caffyn Plate, this time aboard the Peter Russo-trained Pacman Hammer.

Barnes has been a part of the series for indigenous drivers seven times and was thrilled to win the feature in 2017 when she partnered Gotta Go Artelect.

“It is a great thrill to win this race for the second time, especially on Inter Dominion night in front of such a big crowd,” said Barnes.

“It is always a privilege to be invited into the race and to represent my family.

“And winning the race again makes it extra special.

“Pete Russo gave me a lot of confidence going into Saturday’s race and the horse travelled so well for me in running.

“At the top of the straight Pacman Hammer still had a full head of steam and although he got tired in the closing stages, he was doing enough to hold on.

“I am so thankful to the organisers of the race and Club Menangle for inviting me.

“I was incredibly grateful for being afforded the opportunity, as I know all the participating drivers were.”

Russo will be hoping his current run of winners continues at Penrith tonight, where he has two runners.

Consistent pair, With Revenge (Race 1) and Roll Out (Race 3) will both be driven by Jack Callaghan and should figure in the placings.

The Amanda Turnbull-trained and driven Sportingjoy was impressive in winning at Young and will be hard to hold out in Race 6.

Gee Ef Cee (Race 8) has performed well throughout the Eastern Regional Breeders Challenge Series, flashing home to finish fifth in the final at Newcastle.

From gate one and with gun reinsman Robbie Morris aboard, he should go close to landing the money.