Fairytale return as Jeff gets back in the ‘Groove’

FOLLOWING a seven-and-a-half-year ‘hiatus’ from competitive driving, Armidale reinsman Jeffrey Enks made a gallant return to action at Thursday’s Tamworth meeting.

No-one could have scripted how well the return would be, but Enks was happy to knock the cobwebs off and make his return in the Jackson Quality Meats Armidale Pace behind Groovy Shannon, trained by his father, Les Enks.

The combination proved to be a winner!

“Dad wanted me to get my licence back, so I said “righto” and this was the end result – winning the race was the best feeling,” said Enks.

Jeff Enks has overcome some ups and downs off the track and maybe followed the quote: “We must find a way to rise above our mistakes”.

Enks has certainly picked himself up and is proud of what he has achieved.

“Giving up alcohol was the best thing I have done in my life,” grinned Enks.

Keeping his connection with harness racing as a track attendant at the Tamworth harness meetings as well as Narrabri and his home track of Armidale has been part of his motivation.

Once setting his mind on a “comeback” and with eight trial drives completed, Enks regained his licence from HRNSW.

Focused and ready to go in the 1980m event with Groovy Shannon, the duo came out of barrier nine and were happy to sit at the back of the field while Comanche (Scotty-Jon Welsh) and Bella Bronksi (Brad Elder) set a quick race tempo at the top of the field.

Once the bell sounded Commanche and Bella Bronski were joined by Enemy Lines with the trio putting a “gap” on the rest of the field.

Jeff Enks could not spot the leaders from his race position, but at the 600-metre mark urged Groovy Shannon to race three wide.

“I thought I would get going and run fourth at the best and the mare just dug in,” said Enks.

“I wasn’t all that confident when I first started the run as I was so far back, but when I got to the 400 mark, I thought I was a chance, as the others were walking.”

Gaining momentum rounding the final turn, Groovy Shannon went on to grab the win on the line by a half head from Enemy Lines (Bevan Pringle) with Bella Bronksi 1.7m away third.

“I had a bit of an adrenalin rush but she (Groovy Shannon) is such a lovely filly and she has been so good to us . . . we have won six races with her,” said Enks.

“I will just drive a couple of the horses now but between Dean Chapple and Anthony Varga they have been great helping Dad out with the driving.

“It is a big thanks to everyone who has helped us out along the way.”

Les Enks was thrilled to see his son return to the Paceway.

“I’m pleased he is back; it will take the pressure off me,” said Les.

Jeff Enks also picked up the Drive of the Day for his win behind Groovy Shannon.

• JULIE MAUGHAN