Promising teen talent Maddison Simon has three drives at the Tamworth harness meeting on Thursday afternoon, with all the horses trained by her grandfather Len Simon.
The 16-year-old has already tasted success in her short career, including a win on debut in January.
That win was behind Dark Side, whom Simon will steer on Thursday from barrier three in the Dome Financial Group Tamworth Pace. The horse had a last-start win at Tamworth on June 17.
“That was a big run,” Simon said. “I am really proud of him, as he showed off his potential.”
After sitting at the tail of the field, Simon set Dark Side the task of racing three wide on the final lap. He had a dual with Madeyamoney, from the Weidemann stables, down the home straight and won by two metres. He returned $12.10.
READ MORE:
Dark Side’s stablemate, Mammals Rockstar, will then contest the Hats off to Country Festival 12th to 15th July Pace. The horse has drawn the six barrier.
“That is a tough barrier draw but if she gets into a good racing position she will be right,” Simon said. “I will have to play it as to how she comes out of the gate.”
A new edition to the stables, Sir Cracker, who will contest the Tamworth Veterinary Hospital Pace from the three barrier.
The former Western Districts pacer had his first start for the stables last meeting at Tamworth for a second placing. Somebeach N Clovelly beat him by three metres.
“I think he is a lovely little horse,” Simon said. “I hope he has some potential around Tamworth.
“He was up against Somebeach N Clovelly [last start] and it was the luck of the draw, but he went pretty good.
“I think I can get to the lead, or even sit outside whoever leads.
“But I think he will go pretty good – even to fill a placing would be good.”
Simon has six career wins including driving her first double, which came at Armidale.
“To get my first win at my first start is a once-in-a-lifetime [achievement] … I have relaxed into the sport now as the time has gone on,” she said.
