Thomas back in the bike after 10 years away from the sport

After a decade away, Brett Thomas will make his race day return at Motukarara on Sunday.

The 35-year-old had 47 wins as a junior driver between 2011 and 2015 and now he’s back. He’ll drive Zeus, a Downbytheseaside three-year-old gelding he also trains and co-owns in the Murray Hamilton 75th Birthday Mobile Pace (12.55pm) .

“I love the industry and never did I think I’d be away from it forever,” says Thomas, “but I decided to focus on my career for a little bit.”

A property and commercial lawyer, Thomas worked in Wellington after graduating before moving back to Christchurch. He now works at Lincoln Law.

“I’m lucky to have a lot of flexibility. Sometimes it’s early starts and I work the horses before work, other times, depending on when I have meetings I can get home and work them in the afternoons.”

“The horses work around my job but we get them done.”

Thomas trains his team at Dean Taylor’s place at Ladbrooks.

He has three in work – Zeus, an American Ideal three-year-old and one-race winner Majic N The Port, who he bought off gavelhouse.

Zeus was driven by Gavin Smith in his race day debut. He finished seventh of eight after being three back the fence.

“He’s still quite green and he will improve with racing,” says Thomas.

Prior to his debut run Thomas won a workout with him at Motukarara on September 27.

Thomas’ last race day drive was 10 years ago in 2015, with his last win being Mach’s Gladiator in 2014.

In 2013 he had his most successful season with 22 wins. He was sixth equal in the Junior Drivers’ Premiership that year behind the likes of Matthew Williamson (113), Zachary Butcher (86) and Sam Ottley (34).

So how’s he feeling about his imminent return to the race track?

“No nerves yet .. more excited to get out there and have some fun.”

By Dave Di Somma, Harness News Desk