Another tick off the bucket list for young driver

Talented harness racing driver Blake Micallef drove the perfect race to take out the NSW Young Drivers Invitation on Inter Dominion night last Saturday partnering the David Thorn-trained Summit Special to victory at Tabcorp Park Menangle.

It was the 22-year-old’s first win at ‘Headquarters’ and his biggest triumph to date.

“Every year I set myself a goal; this year it was to win 70 races for the season, which I achieved at my home track of Young last Tuesday,” said Micallef.

“Then for this to happen just five days later is so incredible . . . it is the icing on the cake.

“Thorny pretty much left it up to me to drive my own race other than stating to drop Summit Special off the arm and find cover.

“But he assured me that if the horse got the right trip off speed that he would be charging home hard in the closing stages and, as they say, the rest is history.

“It was a real honour to be invited to take on the best young drivers in the state and to represent the South-West and Riverina area.

“Winning the race gave me a real thrill, that’s for sure.

“It was made extra special to have my family there to cheer me on and share in the excitement on such a special night . . . and I cannot thank them enough.

“The help and support they give me, especially my parents David and Rachael, my partner Mel, my brother Luke and his partner Anita is what keeps me wanting to strive to do my best.

“Anita is trainer Jason Grimson’s sister, so it was a massive night for them after Boncel Benjamin won the Inter Dominion.”

Watch Micallef’s Menangle win below:

On Wednesday night, Micallef will be back doing what he loves best, competing at Bathurst, where he has three drives.

“I only have the three drives at Bathurst, including Royalhotshot in the first race for Nathan Turnbull,” said Micallef.

“She is an honest mare that won here three starts back and with the right run she should go close tonight.

“Bettor Jiggle (Race 4) is trained by Josh Turnbull and should be suited by the 2260-metre trip.

“He gets into the race with my claim and with any luck will be thereabouts.

“My other drive is on Missus Gone for Peter Lew in Race 2.

“She has drawn poorly but is an improving type.”

To view the fields for Bathurst on Wednesday click here.

By Michael Dumesny for HRNSW