Twenty-four-year-old Broadmarsh trainer Matthew Howlett became the third generation of the Howlett family to prepare a winner when Iden Rector ($2.90 fav) led all the way to score in the final race of Friday night’s Devonport card.
It was only the second start as a trainer for Howlett, who also took the drive and held the lead from barrier one on the daughter of Auckland Reactor.
After copping some pressure during the slow sections of the early and middle stages of the race, the three-year-old filly appeared to have a bit in reserve, dashing away from her rivals to record her maiden win by 9.9 metres over Aunty Bessy and Auntie Connie.
“It looked her race on paper, and she had been working good enough, though it was a great effort taking on older horses, copping some pressure and still finishing off nicely,” said the quietly spoken Howlett after the victory.
“It is always nice to drive a winner, but definitely more rewarding as a trainer as well,” added the trainer-driver.
Howlett indicated that training will just be a hobby for him now but was grateful for the support of his father, Chris, and prominent southern-based owner-breeder, Elliott Booth.
“I’m lucky that my father (Chris) and myself have had great support from Elliott Booth the last few years, he is sending me a couple more young horses to train going forward, but it’s a team effort with quite long hours required outside of our full-time jobs and help from the rest of family, but we love it,” explained Matt.
Team Teal got a much-needed top-up by it’s Tasmanian counterparts, with three of the seven winners being driven by female drivers.
Hannah Van dongen, who is one of the state representatives at next month’s Australian Female Drivers Championship in Launceston, drove a double on the card with Metro Star and Laid Back Kenny, who was one of the most impressive winners on the night.
Another claiming novice driver, Bronte Miller, registered the third win of the night for Team Teal when driving War Chest to victory, making amends for favourite punters after ruining his chances when galloping in Hobart the start prior.
Duncan Dornauf