By Chris Barsby
Talented young horseman Nathan Purdon is on the move again.

The son of champion horseman Mark is currently based in Brisbane with Ian Gurney where he has enjoyed tremendous success since relocating from Christchurch earlier this year.

But he will now take his talents to Perth next month, the beginning of the new racing season.

He will join the leading stables of Greg and Skye Bond.

“It sounds like a wonderful opportunity over in Perth and I’m looking forward to heading over there, I’ve got to thank dad (Mark) and Ian for helping me get this chance. I’ve had a great time here in Brisbane and it’s such a great place with so many good people so it will be sad to leave in many ways.” Purdon said.

Before making the move to Australian this season, Purdon had driven 8 winners from 60 drives in his native country.

His first winning drive came via subsequent Hunter Cup champion Arden Rooney at Rangiora on October 20, 2013.

Since being based in Brisbane with Gurney, opportunities have come thick and fast since arriving in April and the results have followed.

Currently, from 114 drives, Purdon has landed 28 winners and 16 minor placings.

He is currently ranked in the top ten concession driver’s premiership (8th).

During his time here in Brisbane, Purdon gained his metropolitan brief and he’s thrived on the opportunities to compete against the very best drivers during the recent Brisbane winter carnival at Albion Park.

Leading trainer Shane Tritton didn’t hesitate listing Purdon on a number of his charges in feature events including Yayas Hot Spot in the Gr.1 $100,000 Sunshine Sprint, Controversial in the Gr.1 $100,000 Nursery Flying Stakes and Jivin Cullen in the Gr.1 $125,000 Blacks A Fake.

He also took the drive behind Champagne Dreams in the Gr.1 $100,000 Queensland Oaks.

Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
Driving The Future Of Harness Racing

Dean Baring