Herbertson chasing two slices of history

VICTORIAN ace James Herbertson will aim for two slices of history at Globe Derby on Saturday night.

Representing the ‘Big V’ in the Australian Drivers’ Championship, Herbertson is attempting to become the first reigning champion to retain the title since the series’ inauguration in 2014.

Herbertson claimed the crown during last season’s Hobart-based edition with 61 points.

Having first emerged triumphant at Globe Derby in 2022 – where he accumulated 61 points – Herbertson is also aiming to become the first triple Australian Drivers’ Championship winner.

As it stands, Herbertson and Western Australian superstar Gary Hall junior are the only dual winners.

Hall was victorious with 77 points in Hobart in 2019 before securing the 2024 running Globe Derby with 72 points.

Hall will back in action again as he chases bragging rights as the first triple title holder.

The duo will contest seven of the 10 heats, with a quick perusal of the fields suggesting Herbertson has a slightly better book of drives.

Herbertson will kick-start his defence in the opening heat, where he will partner Bay La Ville from barrier two.

Racing in solid form, Bay La Ville has a win, second and fourth from her last four starts.

Sitting on the sidelines during the first race, Hall will then hold the reins behind Take My Wallet while Herbertson watches from the grandstand.

Winless since June 2025, Take My Wallet has drawn gate seven.

Herbertson and Hall will clash for the first time in race three, with the Victorian to combine with Cyclone S Adams from a 20-metre backmark.

Hall will drive Sammy Barbaro from two on the front line.

Overall, Seaside Lady shapes as Herbertson’s best winning chance in the fifth event.

Boasting three wins and two placings from her last five starts, Seaside Lady has drawn to search for the lead from barrier three.

Hall will drive last start winner Lincs Poor Boy from gate two.

With three wins from his last five outings, Star Of Willoughby appears to be Hall’s leading prospect despite drawing the inside of the second row in race six.

“It’s always a good night, whether it’s in Tassie or Adelaide,” Herbertson said. “It’s always high-pressure racing with the best from around the country.

“You always want to win, but when you’re going back-to-back it has that little bit of pressure…it means a lot that’s for sure.”