More seasonal honors for Herbertson

Victoria’s young gun James Herbertson, who will this year be chasing his third consecutive State harness racing drivers award, picked up another two trophies for his cabinet as Shepparton and Bendigo named their seasonal honor winners for 2023.

Herbertson, of Lexton, just outside of Ballarat, had an intriguing battle with Shepparton’s homegrown accomplished horseman Nathan Jack all through the season, eventually getting the club honors by two points (139 to 137).

And another gifted reinsman in former Tasmanian Jack Laugher was right on their heels with 119 points.

Shepparton’s trainer of the year was Julie Douglas, who enjoyed one of her best seasons with 154 points, from Ben Yole 101, followed by Donna Castles 75 and Lisa Pitt 74.

Other award winners were:

Concession driver of the year: Taylor Youl (60), Tayla French (42), Tasmyn Potter (32).

Horse of the Year- Itzmineontheline (22), Epic Orion (19), Nicolescruiser, Cheeki Philtra and Roslyn Gaye (18 each).

Trotter of the Year: Dances (18), Crookwell Eyes (16), Lindy Grace (15).

The Bendigo Club premiership awards, sponsored by Garrards Horse and Hound and popular local horseman Glenn Douglas, are as follows:

Leading Driver: James Herbertson. Leading Trainer: Emma Stewart. Pacer of the Year: Blue Cannon. Trotter of the Year: Well Deserved. Leading concession driver: Tayla French.

by Terry Gange, for Harnesslink