Georgie Bolton from the HRNZ Education team caught up with Oliver Kite about his Harness Racing career and goals.
How did you get involved in Harness Racing?
When I was nine years old I saw Tony Barron’s jogger going around his track from my house. I was instantly intrigued. Mum talked to Julie Mcewan – Franks and she organised for me to help out Tony and Cheryl during the weekends to see if I enjoyed it. I was hooked immediately and began working there each weekend and during my holidays.
What does a typical day for Oliver Kite look like?
At the moment I am currently in Year 11 at James Hargest College and working hard to get NCEA Level One. During my weekends,holidays and some days after school I work for Nathan Williamson Racing Stables.
Do you have a favourite horse?
Triroyale Brigade is my favourite horse because I like his attitude. He has a cheeky nature and keeps me on my toes. I drive him in work and get on with him really well.
What do you love about the industry?
It is a great industry to be involved in. Everyone is very friendly and always there to offer constructive advice. I enjoy meeting a range of people from all aspects of the game. I love the thrill of the racing and watching the horses perform to their best.
What are your hobbies outside of racing?
Outside of harness racing I enjoy playing a range of sports. I play basketball and have represented Southland for Volleyball.
Do you have any ambition to travel?
I don’t have any plans to travel and live overseas at this stage unless it was to further my experience in the racing game. I hope to one day have the opportunity to travel on trips abroad with horses or for driving opportunities.
What do you enjoy about working with the horses?
I enjoy watching the process of young horses becoming race horses and playing a part in them getting there. Ultimately I really enjoy the different horses and their personalities that they bring to the stable.
Is there anybody who has influenced you so far in your career?
Tony and Cheryl Barron kickstarted my passion for the game and provided me with a lot of hands on experience from a young age. I am very appreciative of the opportunities they gave me and the time and effort they put in to teaching me the correct way of doing things. They inspired me to turn a hobby into a potential career.
Is there anybody you admire in the harness racing industry?
There are so many people in this industry I admire and aspire to be like. Mark Purdon is a legend of the game, he has an eye for a great horse and trains them to perform at their peak in big races. Nathan has great horsemen skills and has taught me a lot about educating horses and the day to day operations and work ethics needed to be successful in the industry.
What are your goals for the future in the Harness Racing industry?
Over the next few years I would like to continue improving my driving, taking on valuable feedback before hopefully becoming a junior driver. I enjoy the challenge of training so would like to try my hand at this further down the track.
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
Driving The Future Of Harness Racing
