400th win for Ison

It has been a memorable week for milestones in harness racing.

But there was one that flew under the radar at Newcastle last weekend.

Tamworth reinsman Tom Ison headed to the International Paceway sitting on 399 wins and brought up his 400th win when he partnered the Jarrod Alchin-trained My Ultimate Johnny (Sweet Lou) to an all-the-way victory in Race 3.

Despite only being 23 years of age, Ison has become a dominant figure in the northern region of New South Wales and is again enjoying a successful season, with 36 winners to date.

Ison enjoyed his most successful period in the sulky when he worked for leading trainer Roy Roots junior and drove 152 winners during the 2019-20 season.

“Reaching the milestone of driving 400 winners was a great feeling,” said Tom.

“It was not something that I had focused on, but it was in the back of my mind.

“I have had a lot of wonderful support along the way for which I am very appreciative.

“Many owners, trainers and especially my family have helped me achieve the success.

“Hopefully, I can build on this milestone and drive plenty of winners, moving forward.”

MY ULTIMATE JOHNNY REPLAY

One pacer that has given Tom plenty to be excited over in recent weeks is Rockin In Chelsea (Rock N Roll Heaven).

Trained by Ison’s father Andrew, the five-year-old mare is unbeaten in five starts since joining their Tamworth stable.

Rockin In Chelsea heads to Tabcorp Park Menangle tomorrow night (Jul. 2) where she will contest the Club Menangle Country Series Final after qualifying in a heat at Newcastle a fortnight ago when rating 1:54.5.

“She has proven to be a real surprise packet since coming up from Sydney,” said Ison.

“Her wins have been dominant, and she impressed us in the way she kept stepping up to every challenge she faced.”

Ison is not driving at tonight’s Newcastle meeting, which is a rarity.

But there is plenty of talent competing throughout the 10-race program which appears strong on paper.

Former Kiwi Just Home Grown (Sweet Lou) will attract plenty of interest from punters in the Mates 4 Harness Pace.

Prepared by astute trainer Aaron Goadsby, the gelding is making his debut on Australian shores and is quoted at short odds in Race 9.

He won a race at Waikati, New Zealand in February and was placed at Ashburton in April.

For complete Menangle Saturday race fields, click here.

For complete Newcastle Friday race fields, click here.

by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW