Father and daughter looking to beat the handicapper

Sydney based reinsman Glenn McEhinney has been regarded as one of the best of his craft for more than four decades.

The freelance driver has enjoyed a successful career in harness racing, with a raft of Group 1 races amongst the 1526 victories on his scoresheet, and a lifetime of good memories.

As an emerging young talent through the halcyon days at Harold Park, Glenn drove against some of the biggest names in the sport and in more recent times has held his own in the top echelon, competing regularly on a Saturday night at Tabcorp Park Menangle.

These days Glenn chooses not to drive in as many races as he has in the past, preferring to take pleasure from supporting his daughter Tiarn Sutton who trains a small team of horses at Menangle Park.

“Harness racing has been great to me,” said McElhinney.

“I have been fortunate to have made a living out of something I love for the best part of my life, achieving some special moments along the way.”

“I do not gain as many drives as I did when I was at the top of my game but I am ok with that.”

“Nowadays I am just happy to support my family in what they do which is satisfying.”

McElhinney proved that he is still one of the best in the business when he produced a first class drive to land Winamotza home first at Penrith last Thursday night.

The gelding, which is trained by Tiarn, has been a handy acquisition to the stable, winning five races under her care since taking over the training duties from owner Norm Warland.

This afternoon at Newcastle, father and daughter will again combine with Winamotza, looking to beat the handicapper when they contest race two.

Drawn wide on the outside of the front row, Winamotza faces a tough test however McElhinney believes their horse has a sound winning chance in an even contest.

“He is a strong horse that is best suited when driven forward.”

“But I will sum things up after we leave the arm to see what pans out.”

“We found ourselves outside the leader at Penrith and I think that is where we may end up in today’s race.”

“If he can handle the quick back-up, I think he will be right in the mix.”

For complete Newcastle race entries, click here.

by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW