Trainer Ian Smith believes concession driver Michael Harding is one of South Australia’s best kept secrets.
“Michael’s driven a few horses for me and does a great job, each time and I’m surprised he doesn’t get a lot more drives,” Smith said.
The trainer was talking after giving Harding 10 out 10 for his drive on the trotter Matareka in the Kalleske Chaff Trotters Handicap (2230m).
A $6 chance, Matareka scored a 7-1/2 metre win from Ole Sun ($2.30 fav) with Maccas Gone Kracas ($20.80) 13-1/2 metres away third.
“The horse has been going really well and tonight to win we had to make sure the backmarkers struggled from their handicaps,” Smith said.
Matareka came off 10 metres himself, but one the field had settled down Smith said he told Harding to take off dictate the pace from up the front.
“Michael was quick to come forward and take control and he kept the pace on and it proved a winning move,” Smith said.
“With 30.3 and 30.9 final quarters to made it very tough for Ole Sun which had come off 30 metres.”
Ole Sun’s trainer Ray Goble agreed.
“I was really happy with his run,” Goble said. “He gave his best but the winner was too well rated.”
Matareka has been a good investment for owners the Late Freight Syndicate.
Smith said many of the syndicate members were employees of the TNT freight company of which he had worked.
“The one thing we didn’t want was to be late, and because we worked in freight so came the syndicate’s name.
“We’ve had a few horses over recent years and had some good fun and a few wins.
“Matareka cost $3000 and his stakes earning is now more than $25,000 so he has been a good investment.”
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