This time, he was on the other side of the lens.
Dan Costello, Queensland racing’s ‘Mr. Nice Guy’ and resident photographer for all three racing codes in the south-east of the state was on hand to take a winning snap at Albion Park yesterday (Tuesday) but this time it was with a twist.
The winning performance of former New Zealand trotter Danny Cool is co-owned by Costello along with Kerry McLean.
It was the gelding’s maiden Australian victory.
“It was a great thrill to finally see the horse perform at his best, he’s got ability but his manners have let him down since his arrival. It’s always a great thrill taking winning photographs of happy connections and this time I got to share that experience and it’s so infectious. I’m sure the horse was named after me.” Costello said with a wry smile.
The winning effort from Danny Cool keeps the record of Costello in perfect shape following his first venture into ownership with Karloo Mac and young trainer/driver Trent Moffat.
Another thrill emanating from the victory was the fact John McMullen took the winning himself, therefore, breaking a long run of outs.
“It was great to see John turn back the clock, he’s driven hundreds of winners throughout his career but takes a backseat nowadays allowing his kids (Pete, Narissa & Dannielle) to handle the bulk of the stable driving. I think it’s been five years between victories for John so it was great to part of that yesterday.
“I met Kerry after taking many photographs of him with winning horses with John at Albion Park and he asked if I was interested in racing a horse with him and I jumped at the opportunity plus the name of the horse was a big winner with me.
“Hopefully that victory will give him the confidence he needs and it will be the first of many now, I think he’s capable of winning a few more. The ownership side of the business is very exciting; I’m two for two with horses that have raced for me to date while I’ve got a two-year-old in work with Trent (Moffat) that we purchased from the sales who is shaping nicely at this stage.”
Costello has proven to be the driving force in conjunction with the Albion Park Harness Racing Club in forming a syndicate to race a pacer recently purchased from New Zealand.
The pacer will be trained by leading horseman Peter Greig.
“I want to see more people buying and racing more horses in Brisbane and I thought this was a great to introduce new people into the game, I get excited winning races and I want others to share that feeling because it is infectious.
“The process with the club has been great, selecting the trainer and then sourcing the horse from New Zealand. The horse is Royal Taz and early reports are pleasing so here’s an opportunity to get involved, let me take your winning photograph.”
For further information about the syndicate – visit the website at theparksyndications.com
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
Driving The Future Of Harness Racing
