Herbertson to represent Victoria at Queensland 2025 AYDC series

James Herbertson has just come home from a whirlwind overseas working holiday, but will pack his bags once again ahead of a week-long harness racing trip to Queensland for the Australasian Young Drivers Championships in mid-July.

Herbertson, who drove three winners in the United States and one in Sweden before returning from more than a month abroad last week, has been selected to represent Victoria at the annual under-25 series.

The Lexton local competed in the AYDC in 2023 and finished fifth behind overall winner Josh Gallagher.

The 41st running of the championships will be conducted at Albion Park and Redcliffe, and will see the best young drivers from across Australia and New Zealand battle it out across 10 races.

The action starts on July 15, with the last round of heats scheduled for Inter Dominion grand final night on July 19.

“I was lucky enough to go up for the same event in Queensland a couple of years ago and that was great,” Herbertson said.

“I thought I was too old to go this year, but luckily I’ve snuck under the radar and I’m able to go again and have a good time.

“They are great series and there’s a few different Kiwis coming across this year, which will be good.”

Drivers will take part in a range of social and development activities while in Queensland for the race series.

“We are delighted to have James represent Victoria in the Australasian Young Drivers Championships,” HRV’s Head of Racing Greg Gangle said.

“His dedication to his craft has paid off in spades in recent years, and there’s no doubt he has a bright future for many years to come.

“I’m sure his recent overseas trips have served him well both personally and professionally. We wish him and his fellow drivers nothing but the best as all eyes turn to Queensland for their carnival.”

2025 AYDC FIELD: Sam Thornley – New Zealand, Wilson House – New Zealand, Harrison Orange – NZ North Island, Carter Dalgety – NZ South Island, Brodie Davis – Tasmania, Chloe Butler – Queensland, James Herbertson – Victoria, Emily Suvaljko – Western Australia, Jett Turnbull – New South Wales, Bernadette Page – South Australia.

by Tim O’Connor, for Harness Racing Victoria