FACT SHEET

How long have you been a trainer?
Since 1980.

What was your first winner?
Auburn Bret (Knowing Bret - Kate Louise) January 1980 at Ascot Park Invercargill -Great

Editor's note: It was the two year old's first start. He beat Vita Man by a length and a half. He finished his first season by running fourth in the New Zealand Welcome Stakes won by Captain Padero.

How did you choose your racing colours?
They belonged to Ritchie Evans a client and friend. He wanted us to use them when we started out.

How many winners have you trained?
437 (End of the 2016-2017 season)

Biggest race you have won as a trainer?
New Zealand Oaks (Group One) with Young Eden and Sire Stakes Final (Group One) with Stands To Reason.

Editors note: Young Eden was by Noodlum out of the five win mare Eden's Joy. In the final days leading into the New Zealand Oaks she was worked on the beach by Craig Buchan. She had problems with a curved hock and an injury to her hind leg. Stands To Reason was by Stampede out of Sentimental Reason. He won the Sires Stake Final by a nose after leading and holding on to beat favourite Choice Vance.
Stable and track location:
Matai Road,Edendale.

Track size:
720 metres.

Size of property:
150 acres.

Training capacity:
19 in stable plus paddock with shelter.

Best mare trained:
Young Eden

Best colt or gelding trained:
Stands To Reason (52-6-14-8 $161,985) and Shot (83-10-11-161- $87,400).

Best horse trained:
Wouldn't want to pick one.

Best horse sold:
Matai BBC.

Editors note: Matai BBC won three races in New Zealand and a further 17 in Australia with career earnings of $143,485. His biggest win was in the 2008 $30,000. Group Three Governor's Cup at Albion Park.

Which race would you most like to win in Southland:
The Southland Oaks with a filly we own ourselves.

Which Zealand race would you be most thrilled to win:
Dominion Handicap as I love seing and driving trotters.

Which New Zealand trainer do you admire most:
All of them as this is a pressure industry to be in.

What do you consider to be the biggest challenge facing harness racing in Southland:
Encouraging young people into the industry. There are no young ones coming through the grades. Unfortunately for us the good ones head offshore due to the money factor.