Racing WA’s commitment to support the development and growth of emerging junior drivers with the introduction of fortnightly races exclusive to concession drivers kicks off on Monday January 13 at Pinjarra.
The penalty free maiden event at Pinjarra, the Spurr Stud Novice Driver Concession series will see 10 young drivers go head-to-head, with each vying for top points.
Drivers will accumulate points throughout the series, with a prize awarded at the end of the season according to the below point matrix.
1st – 17 points, 2nd – 12 points, 3rd – 9 points, 4th – 7 points, 5th – 6 points, 7th – 4 points, 8th – 3 points, 9th – 2 points, 10th – 1 point.
Driver selections for the race is done by ballot and will rotate to ensure fair opportunities for all available concession drivers and will remain a penalty free race to ensure horses remain eligible for their regular campaigns while providing a platform for concession drivers to gain confidence and exposure.
“Supporting the development of young drivers is a cornerstone of our vision for harness racing in Western Australia.” said Cameron Brown, Racing WA’s Head of Harness Racing & Special Projects.
“This initiative not only gives these talented drivers regular race opportunities but also strengthens the future of our sport by building skills, experience, and engagement.”
Drivers are selected at random and those that miss out one week will be rotated in the following fortnight to ensure equal opportunities for all young drivers.
“I’m very excited about it. It gives us juniors equal competition as most of us have only just started and it helps get our names out there more and meeting new trainers.” Abbey Vidovich told Racing WA.
“I’m definitely looking forward to getting out there and have a bit of rivalry between the fellow junior drivers. It’s definitely something that’s going to help my career a lot with being able to get drives on new horses but also being able to drive for new trainers as well.” Lachlan Kennelly told Racing WA.
