Tim Tetrick a hit in New Zealand

One of the real international stars of harness racing in Tim Tetrick hit New Zealand yesterday and created a level of interest from the general media that this industry rarely sees.

Everybody wanted a piece of the action and being the consummate professional that he is, Tim handled all the attention with a big smile and good humour.

The highlight of his first day down under was his one drive at the Auckland Trotting Clubs meeting at Alexandra Park last night.

Tim took the drive behind The Fascinator from leading trainer Tony Herlihy's barn and gave New Zealand harness racing enthusiasts a glimpse of why he is so highly regarded in North America.

Away well from barrier six in the 2200 metres event, Tim sent The Fascinator forward and had a serious look for the lead through the first 600 metres but Simon Lawson on Strike The Gold wouldn't hand up so Tim restrained her and settled her three back on the inner.

Passing the 700 metres, the back runners started their move and Tim eased the mare out into the running line and once again sat up on the wheel of Strike The Gold with The Faithful and Zac Butcher hard on Tim's back.

Turning for home Tim and The Fascinator grabbed a narrow lead over Strike The Gold and held it for most of the straight before being caught in the shadows of the finishing post by The Faithful and Zac Butcher.

Tim loved the experience of driving in New Zealand.

"It was a bit different going right handed to be honest but I really enjoyed it."

" The Stewards gave me a lot of do's and don'ts' before I went onto the track but once I got out there the drivers were great in showing me the ropes," Tim told Harnesslink today.

Tim didn't think there was that much difference in the driving styles between the two countries.

" A lot of people think you drive a lot tighter down under but we drive tight up there as well believe me."

"Because the carts are not as wide in New Zealand, the horses are closer to you but its no tighter than what I am use to at home."

"People mentioned to me to be aware of drivers pushing out but we do plenty of pushing and shoving at times at home so I was pretty relaxed about it all," Tim said. 

Harness racing in New Zealand struggles most of the time to get a lot of mainstrem media attention but Tim Tetrick's visit has put harness racing front and centre and for all that media coverage the industry should give Tim a huge thank you.

Harnesslink Media