Young Gun Series: David White

White Racing, owned and operated by David White and his wife Stacey have had a harness racing season to remember, and are looking to extend their stable of stars at the upcoming National Yearling Sale.

How did your passion for the industry come about?
Between Stacey and I, it’s a real family affair. It goes back three or four generations. It’s in the blood for us.

What has been your career highlight to date?
Probably winning the Group One Queensland Derby with Major Hot (NZ) this year. That was incredible.

What do you look for when purchasing a yearling?
Conformation. I like them to be fairly strong. Good temperament and a good attitude is also key.

What is a key factor in running a successful racing operation?

We take pride in good communication with owners. Stacey plays a big role in that. Updating, videoing and keeping everyone involved. It’s an important part of putting together a good racing team.

A race you’d like to win? 
Probably the Dominion. After winning the lead up races to it this year, that’s one we’d love to get.

Who is your favourite sire at current?
Easy, Bettor’s Delight, he’s just a marvel.

Which horse has given you the most satisfaction in your career?
Bet N Win (NZ) (What the Hill). We had quite a few challenges with him throughout his career. Time and patience has been his friend. Getting him to Australia and running in the great trotting feature races now has been incredibly satisfying. He is a happy horse.

Do you have any role models in the industry?
My uncle, Trevor White. Also, Barry and Mark Purdon. What they have achieved and continue to achieve in the game is something I admire.

Best piece of advice you’ve been given?
Consistency is key. You have good runs and bad runs, trust what you do, it will come right.

What piece of advice would you give any young person wanting to get started in the standardbred industry?
Ask questions. Talk to people. Make good connections with people. It will help you along the way.

Lastly David, any non-racing hobbies?
Spending time with my family. I’m a big fan of golf, so I play a bit of that too.

Catch David at the sales with selling kicking off at Karaka on Saturday 15 February from 1pm (NZT). Attention will then turn to the Canterbury Agricultural Park where selling begins on Tuesday 18 February at 11am (NZT).

All horses purchased at the Sale are eligible for NZB Standardbred’s lucrative Harness Million Sales Race Series. The Series consists of principal two-year-old and three-year-old races for colts and geldings, fillies and trotters individually, where NZB Standardbred graduates can contest for their share in a one million dollar prizepool.

As a non-Group One winning trainer in New Zealand as of 1 January, David also qualifies as a Next Gen Trainer. For more about the Next Gen Series, click here.

From NZB Standardbred