Together for the long run in Prostate Cancer campaign

Ballarat horseman Mick Stanley was thrilled to be chosen to wear special silks this month to help push key messages and raise funds during the annual Prostate Cancer Awareness campaign.

And the polished reinsman has made every post a winner with seven victories so far- and he’s hoping there could be one or two more by late this afternoon when this year’s promotion wraps up.

Harness Racing Victoria has been donating $500 for every winner posted during the month by Stanley and another leading driver John Caldow. The theme for Prostate Cancer Awareness Month has been “Together for the long run”, aimed at bringing people together in solidarity of men and families impacted by the disease. Stanley stable stalwarts Robert Watson and former AFL footballer Josh Jenkins have each added their support to the campaign making additional donations.

“When I was contacted to see if I would don the Prostate Cancer Foundation colors I was so pleased because it was the first time I’d been asked,” Stanley said.

“I was wondering if perhaps they should have asked someone who is driving more regularly though! Some months I’ll go around quite a bit, then other months it might drop off to just a few.

“Anyway, I had some nice ones of my own who were about to return to racing, so I was hoping for the best. And it turned out I’ve also had a little bit of luck for the month, so it’s all turned out pretty good.”

Stanley didn’t waste any time, putting two wins on the board on the opening night of the promotion at Bendigo. Two of his team in 2yo Soho Down Jones and 3yo Drain The Swamp got the cash.

Nine days later at Geelong, Rock N Roll Doo was successful, and the youngster repeated the dose at Bendigo last Tuesday week.

Stanley’s other winners have been Drain The Swamp (Kilmore), Let It Linga (Terang) and Wingate Guy (Maryborough).

Caldow has been a model of consistency in his opportunities, but, frustratingly, has managed only two wins so far.

“John has been driving so well. He’s been in the placings a lot, and he’s been encouraging me to keep things ticking along, which is nice.”

Caldow has been successful on Bronski Moment on two occasions-Melton on September 15 and then Geelong a week later.

All funds raised will help Prostate cancer research, awareness and support locally.

Prostate cancer remains the most common cancer among Australian men, claiming more than 3000 lives each year as well as lifelong impacts.

HRV CEO Dayle Brown said it was important the harness racing industry supported such an important cause.

“We are pleased to have again been involved through raising awareness and funds to fight prostate cancer,” he said.

By Terry Gange for Harnesslink