Don’t forget this young talent

IT SEEMS like all the attention in the Hunter region has been around the rising success of harness racing’s newest centurions, Tom Ison and Blake Hughes.

Both young drivers deserve all the accolades they have been receiving and the future certainly looks bright for both.

But there is another young Central Coast reinsman who has been quietly ticking over the winners and has, for some time now, been regarded as a huge talent.

That reinsman is 21-year-old Brad Elder, who is currently in his sixth season of driving and sets himself goals to ensure that he does not rest on his laurels.

“Each year, I set my sights on driving more winners than I did in the previous season and so far, my optimism is paying off,” said Elder.

“While I haven’t quite achieved that feat in the true sense, I am more than happy with my results, having driven more than 330 winners since I first got my license in 2014.”

Elder has landed 57 winners this season while his best result came in the 2017-18 season with 82 successes.

The past week has showcased the talent that Elder possesses as he landed a winning double at Tamworth on August 13 and followed up with another double four days later at Newcastle.

Brad and his father Darren rode the crest of a wave a few seasons back when their star pacer Shannonsablast contested feature races, including the 2015 Inter Dominion Series at Gloucester Park in Perth.

“He is without a doubt the best horse I have driven and gave our family a lot of pleasure,” said Elder.

“I won quite a few races on him at Menangle, which was special.”

Brad has just two drives at Newcastle this evening, which is a quiet night by his standards.

“I usually have a lot more drives at these meetings but I am happy to take it easy tonight with just the two drives and I do feel that they both have sound chances,” he said.

“Belle Of Brooklyn (Race 1) is back to her best again after putting in a few disappointing runs.

“I was really pleased with her win on Monday as she went to the line strongly and rated a smart time.

“The race tonight should suit her, I ‘ll be hoping that I can get up near the lead or just off the pace from her good draw.”

• MICHAEL DUMESNY