Trailing by four points going into the final race of the Nicholas Dewar Memorial Rising Stars series, Young knew what she had to do. 

Winning was on her mind, but she had to make sure that her charge Our Positano, from the Amanda Turnbull stables, finished in front of her closest competitor, Cameron Hart, who was driving Untitled.

Young finished fourth in the final and secured enough points to take out the Rising Stars series, as Cameron Hart finished at the tail of the field.

“It’s been such a terrific week and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it,” said Young, who has Tamworth connections.

“I’ve made a lot of new friends. And to be able to compete in this series two years in a row is something I’ll long remember.

“It was certainly a great thrill to come through and win it … that was a real bonus and I have to thank everyone for a great week where we have been treated so well.”

HUNTER Valley trainer-driver Mark Callaghan often competes at the Tamworth Paceway and will now be joined by his eldest son – 16-year-old Jack – who made his driving debut at Newcastle last Saturday night.

With two drives at his first race meeting, Jack drove Lovin Miss Daisy for his debut drive but had to be content with seventh place. His father won the race with Downunder Stride, paying $37.80 for the win.

“That was my first drive and it was good to get amongst the action but we never got a crack at them,” Jack said.

The second drive for the night was a winner for young Jack, when he guided Lethal Star, trained by his father, into the winner’s circle.

Racing three wide into the home straight, Lethal Star pulled away from the field, with Jack Callaghan taking a peek over his shoulder before increasing the lead.

“I was kind of thinking where was everyone. I didn’t expect to get it [the win] that easy,” he said.

“I got my licence about two weeks ago and this is my first night at the track and only my second drive. I have waited a while for this moment and it has paid off.”

AFTER the Tamworth meeting on Thursday, the Richard Williams stables will contest the Newcastle meeting on Saturday night. While local reinsman Dean Chapple has accepted a drive behind Western Stride, from the Mark Callaghan stables, in the $20,000 JTS Engineering TABCORP Park Menangle Where Horses Fly Final at Menangle on Saturday night.