15 December 2020 | HRNSW MEDIA
CARRYING the name ‘McCarthy’ in harness racing is a hard act to uphold, but that does not faze Mathew McCarthy.
His father Ray enjoyed considerable success with the smart juvenile, Greentree Dancer.
McCarthy’s brother John began his career in Bathurst and went on to become one of the best trainer-drivers in Queensland while his sons Luke, Andy and Todd are presently amongst the best drivers in the world.
“Yeah, I have to say I am pretty proud of the boys. They have all done well for themselves,” said McCarthy.
“Still, I am quite satisfied with my lot in life.
“I am currently working just two horses at my Perthville base and I love my work-life balance.”
McCarthy works for Bathurst Regional Council, outdoors as a truck driver, among other activities.
“My role gives me quite a deal of diversity and flexibility,” he said.
“When you work for a council in your hometown, it gives you a great deal of satisfaction seeing the fruits of your labor, which are enjoyed by the community in which you live.
“Both of the horses that I have in work are going really well at the moment.
“The Weekend is a gelding that has been with me for just a short time.
“When I got him, I put him in the paddock for a spell and he has done a bit too well.
“He came back into work with plenty of condition on him, so it took a while to get him back to the racetrack.”
But it came as no shock to McCarthy when The Weekend stormed home at juicy odds ($34) to win at Bathurst last week in a qualifying heat of the Club Dubbo Golden Gig.
“His work in the lead-up to last week’s race pleased me so I did rate him a good chance,” said McCarthy.
“He will head to Dubbo on Friday for the Final and I am hoping for a good draw.
“He will need his fair share of luck, so here’s hoping.”
At Bathurst on Wednesday, McCarthy has Pacman Hammer contesting (Race 4) and to be driven by his good mate, Jake Davis.
“Jake knows all of my horses so well and always drives for me when he can,” he said.
“I have been friends with his family for as long as I can remember.”
Pacman Hammer was only beaten by a metre last start and McCarthy was pleased with the run.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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