TALENTED reinsman Stuart McDonald is beginning to wonder if the handicappers have forgotten he is a local.
McDonald will represent Western Australia in the Australasian Young Drivers’ Championship, which begins at Gloucester Park tonight.
To be conducted as a 10-race series, the Championship will be contested at various country venues before concluding at Gloucester Park on December 9 – Inter Dominion Day.
Drivers from across the Southern Hemisphere will compete in the event, with each Australian state also selecting a representative, with four New Zealanders also part of the tournament.
As for McDonald’s concern, he has received what can best be described as “visitors’ draws” in both starting positions and several outsiders he will partner in the first few heats.
“I know I was born in New Zealand, but I’ve been an Aussie for five years now,” McDonald joked. “Surely, that’s enough to avoid the visitors’ draws!”
McDonald’s quest for home state glory has a shaky start after being combined with long shot Tajies Girl.
He will then drive Ergo at Bunbury tomorrow evening, followed by Rudimental Sol and Its Nevertheless at Pinjarra on Monday before heading to Northam to take the reins behind Maras Ace Man and Master Flynn.
None of McDonald’s drives have won this season.
“It’s not looking promise as I haven’t had much like with the draws,” McDonald said. “Hopefully we can turn that around once the racing starts and bring home a win or two.
“I certainly had to get at least one win as my sponsor Jodie Hallows will be there taking the pictures.
“I’m really excited about being a part of the series and hopefully I can do my state proud.”
Approved By Dean Baring www.harnessbred.com
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