Century Season for Whitaker

It’s been another busy season for Queensland reinsman Gary Whitaker.

But the talented horseman wouldn’t want it any other way.

And for the second time during his career, he has busted through the 100 win mark after registering another double at Albion Park last week.

A massive effort considering he’s a freelance driver.

“It’s been a good year to date and I’m happy with the way things are going; it’s hard work but it’s very rewarding when you get the results, I’m driving for as many different stables as I’ve ever done previously and that’s very pleasing too.” Whitaker said.

After gaining four wins from 47 drives in his first season back in the 1997/98 season, the winners have flowed freely since.

His first century season came via the 2003/04 season when he landed 105 winners.

After a short stint in Victoria in the mid 2000’s, the lightweight reinsman has been very consistent with his numbers since basing himself back in the sunshine state including totals of 62, 62, 87, 87, 73, 81 and now another century season.

During that period, he has become an important cog in the wheel of the highly respected Bill Crosby stable which has produced precocious talent season after season.

Horses like Western Mail, Final Champion, Shez No Fake, Morethanmeetstheeye, Lady White Water and Constantlysideways among others.

This season, they have produced promising types Stayintown Tonight and Harbour Town while the unraced Yes Brother Yes has looked good at the trials.

Another important key to Whitaker’s success includes his ability to partner a trotter.

“I really enjoy the trotter, more than the pacers actually because it’s so much more of a challenge and one trotter is never the same because they all have their own traits and quirks. I have driven some nice trotters in my time and this season I’ve been lucky enough to sit behind a promising type like Justabitnoisy for trainer Doug Lee.

“I enjoy competing day in and day out and I’ve worked hard on building my relationships with the trainers and owners. There’s a good bunch of drivers here and it’s always tough competing with them, hopefully I can land another century next season.”

Another milestone quickly looming for Whitaker is his quest to reach 1000 career wins.

And it will soon be reached with 947 lifetime victories already on the board.

Whitaker is ranked fourth on the state driver’s premiership this season with only Shane Graham (235), Grant Dixon (209) and Pete McMullen (158) in front of him.