The Will to win

Will Rixon’s grandfather, the late great A.D. Turnbull was a dominant harness racing force throughout the Western Districts over many decades and had a special love for the Eugowra Paceway.

Will’s mother Cindy was also a prominent freelance reinswoman in the district and recalls her enjoyment and time competing at the picturesque Eugowra track.

But on Tuesday afternoon, the Eugowra Paceway became Will’s own when he took out the prestigious Flood Relief ’23 Invitational Drivers Series, a highlight at the hugely-successful ANZAC Day race meeting hosted by Forbes Diggers Harness Racing Club.

Coming up against some of the best drivers in the sport, Rixon excelled by accumulating 18 points after landing a winner and third placing in the two-race series, finishing well clear of his closest rival, fellow Sydneysider Robert Morris.

“It is honestly a great thrill for me just to be a part of all of this and to help raise much-needed funds for the cause,” said the young reinsman.

“But to win the series overall was simply awesome.

“I am aware of how much history my family has in the sport and particularly racing at Eugowra, so to go out there and follow in their footsteps was something pretty special.

“The day was so perfect.

“The weather was great, which brought out a big crowd, and it is a real credit to all the people who planned and organised the day.

“All the drivers who participated in the series were thrilled to be involved, we just wanted to get to help raise some money for those people affected by the terrible floods.”

Each of the drivers wore a set of racing silks designed and provided by Hyland Sportswear that were sponsored by various businesses.

Will’s sponsor was Camden-based business Michael Brown Planning Strategies and Michael Brown himself attended Tuesday’s meeting and was thrilled with the outcome.

Brown, a long-term industry supporter, owner and breeder spoke of the pride he felt by being able to be involved in the fundraising effort.

Rixon will climb down from the clouds for a busy night at Penrith tonight, where he has a drive in each of the eight races.

While he admits that the majority of his drives are each-way chances at best, he is confident he can make his presence felt in race 6 tonight with the Rickie Alchin-trained Il Bandito.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW