It’s all in the family

Moonbi trainer-driver Dean Chapple has been a prominent figure in harness racing in the northern areas of New South Wales for most of his adult life.

While he has seen some highs and lows during his time in the sport, Chapple is more than satisfied with his involvement and success.

“You always dream about getting that champion and every time you take on a new horse, you hope it could be the next big thing,” said Chapple.

Chapple is also buoyed by the fact that his 18-year-old daughter Elly has followed him into the sport and is showing plenty of ability in the sulky.

“Elly has just taken out her trainers’ license and is working two of her own on our property just north of Tamworth,” said Chapple.

“I am presently working 20 horses, it is a real family affair as my wife Julie and son Jack are both very hands-on, and it makes for a great working environment as we are all there for each other.”

Chapple was full of praise for how Harness Racing New South Wales had thrown its support behind the New England area by purchasing the Tamworth Showground Paceway and allocating a worthwhile number of race meetings to the precinct.

“It does give us the opportunity to attract new owners into the sport and pacers are being regularly sent up to trainers in the area from down south,” he said.

“This further bolsters the horse population, which is currently very strong.”

The Chapples will head into Tamworth this evening where they will be busy with eight runners on what appears to be a strong program.

“I am confident that we have a couple of good chances of winning tonight,” he said.

“One that I really like is Brie in the first race. 

“She is owned by a couple of top galloping trainers from here in Sue Grills and Leslie Jeffries and this is their first pacer. 

“She won first-up for them and we are now setting her for a Menangle Country Series. 

“They are rapt and are already talking about buying more horses.

“My best roughie looks to be Apollon in the last race. 

“He is a consistent fellow and was steaming home last time out. 

“Hopefully, he can get some luck from gate 10 and be right there at the finish.”

HRNSW MEDIA