Will takes home the Medal

The biggest names in New South Wales harness racing have been recipients of the prestigious Club Menangle Medal.

In the recent past champion participants who have made their way onto the honour roll for their outstanding achievements include Luke McCarthy, Robbie Morris, and Amanda Turnbull.

Throughout each month of the year, the Club Menangle board, management and National Trotguide nominate a standout performer and then choose one of them to be awarded the medal, presented at the Harness Racing Industry’s Awards night.

For the 2022 season, the list of nominees was as strong as they have ever been with the eventual winner being young Pheasants Nest reinsman Will Rixon, who is undoubtably one of the best talents in the current group of Sydney drivers.

Born into the sport , both of Will’s parents are from long established harness racing dynasties but that aside, from day one the youngster has worked hard to establish himself, travelling throughout the state and beyond to take drives.

And it is all paying off for Will as he is now a regular metropolitan reinsman on a Saturday night at Tabcorp Park Menangle.

Rixon remains humble over what he has been able to achieve, giving credit to his parents Peter and Cindy and sisters Ellen and Hannah for the support they have given to enable him to chase his dream.

“This would not be at all possible without the wonderful grounding that I was afforded from my family,” he said.

“Mum, Dad and my sisters have always been there for me, giving me guidance and advice when I needed it.

“I have also been given so many good opportunities from owners and trainers who have put their faith in my ability, that is something I really appreciate.

“Winning this medal means a lot to me and my family.

“I look at the names of some of the previous recipients and have to pinch myself, it is quite an honour to see my name next to theirs.”

It has been a dashing start to 2023 for Rixon as the 22-year-old is currently sitting third on the state’s Drivers Premiership table with 25 wins.

He will be looking to add to that tally tonight at Penrith where he has six drives on the eight race program, his best appearing to be aboard the Jason Grimson-trained Princess Leia in Race 1.

For complete race entries, click here.

by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW