Gallagher making the most of his opportunities

Inter Dominion-winning reinsman Josh Gallagher continues to make the most of his opportunities and the Menangle Park harness racing driver recognised as one of the most talented amongst a current group of elite reinsmen.

Gallagher has achieved so much in the sport in a relatively short time but on Sunday at Goulburn the 22-year-old captured his 500th winner when driving the square trotting mare Queen Of Strathfield (Peak).

Gallagher has been in high demand from the time he first took out his licence in 2016, and with seven black-type race wins under his belt, the youngster’s popularity with trainers continues.

Gallagher admits that it has taken hard work to get where he is in the sport with early morning starts and late nights at the races, but he would not change anything, knowing that it is part and parcel of the sport that he loves.

“I am living the dream being a reinsman in a sport that I truly love,” said Gallagher.

“When I reflect on what I have achieved thus far, it justifies the sacrifices that we make as horsemen. Sure, it can be a tough grind, but it is very satisfying when you get the success that I have been fortunate to meet with.”

“Harness Racing is full of wonderful people, many of whom have attributed to me learning about the sport and without their help and support I would not be where I am today.”

Gallagher certainly had plenty of time to savour his half century milestone as Queen Of Strathfield trounced her rivals, scoring by a huge margin.

“I have driven the mare to four wins now, so it was pleasing that I was able to get my 500th win with her,” he said.

“She has been a handy trotter for her connections, and she just goes out there and does her thing.”

Gallagher returns to Newcastle tonight for seven drives, a track that he has had a lot of success on, being the winning most reinsman at the International Paceway during the past 12 months.

Despite having some handy each way hopes throughout the night, Josh agrees that his best winning chance comes up in the last race, aboard the Lizzy Heath trained Killara Dragon.

“Her first start effort when running third here was full of merit,” said Gallagher.

“She faces a maiden field tonight and will be hard to beat despite her wide draw.”

For complete race entries, click here.

by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW