Home is where the heart is for Callaghan

Jack Callaghan concluded a most successful 2022 harness racing season after landing an impressive 167 winners to finish second behind Cameron Hart in the New South Wales Drivers’ Premiership.

But it was away from home that the talented young reinsman displayed his finesse by partnering Grand Circuit pacer Spirit of St Louis to some important victories including the Bendigo, Shepparton, and Ballarat Cups and more recently a heat of the Inter Dominion series.

The former Newcastle horseman is now based at Cobbitty and is a firm believer that you should never forget where you came from so he is always keen to travel up to the Hunter Valley, not only drive for his father Mark, but also for other trainers who gave him opportunities that kick started his career.

“I will never forget where it all started for me and that is why I love travelling back home to Newcastle whenever I get the chance to,” said Callaghan.

“I love being able to drive for dad and the rest of my family. And now my younger brother Tom is also driving, being out there with him is great. Occasionally Dad is out there with us too which gives us all a special feeling.

“We are great competitors on the track and love to outdo each other. But at the same time, we enjoy it when any of us can win.”

It will be a busy weekend for Callaghan as after driving at Penrith last night, he has six drives tonight at Newcastle, followed by another five tomorrow night at Tabcorp Park Menangle, including partnering Spirit Of St Louis (Sweet Lou) in the free-for-all.

“All my weekends seem to be big ones lately, but it is just what we do and I love it,” he said.

“I have some really good drives at each meeting, but there is no doubt I am looking most forward to partnering Louis.

“He has had a few quiet weeks at home following his gruelling Inter Dominion campaign so the freshen up has him back on track and ready for his assignment tomorrow night.”

Callaghan suggested that the best of his drives at Newcastle tonight was aboard handy mare Platinum Revolution in race five.

Trained by Adam Ruggari, Platinum Revolution ran a strong third at Tabcorp Park Menangle.

That was her first run back from a spell and has her sharpened up for tonight.