Carbine Chemicals ‘Faces at the races’

GIVEN his bloodline, Darren Pace was destined to be involved in harness racing.

A third generation horseman, Pace’s clan began racing trotters through the streets of the family’s native Malta before his father, Vic, moved to Australia and continued the tradition.

Establishing himself among Victoria’s leading junior drivers during the 1990s, Pace has enjoyed his share of success over a sustained period, including a $125,000 Trot Final with Sam Nien last season.

Mixing his time between his business as an electrician, Pace trains “a handful” of horses with the willing help of his sons Blake and Riley, who are talented concession reinsmen.

You’re allowed to take one thing to a deserted island, what would it be?
My wife, Cynthia

What was your first job?
Working horses for Reg Trevean

Name one thing in your life you will never do again?
Buy a claimer

Name four people you’d like to spend the night with
David Magri, Chris Scicluna, Paul Courts and Frank Offer – try and relive our younger days!

Describe your perfect weekend…
Haven’t head many of them, so hard to think. Bulldogs winning a flag in the afternoon and me winning an Inter Dominion that night

Your worst habit?
Biting my nails

Favourite TV show?
Landman

Favourite film?
Phar Lap

Favourite drink?
Vodka Redbull

Favourite food?
Whatever Cynthia is cooking on the island

Name a food you can’t stomach…
I eat everything

Favourite sports team?
Bulldogs

Who is your most admired person?
My Dad

Best horse you’ve been associated with?
San Nien and Als Court

First winner?
Give Us A Gift in Geelong in 1992

Funniest thing you’ve seen in harness racing?
Stephen Dove falling out of the back when the sulky broke in Kilmore