Mitch looking for a late hit

THE excitement of Gold Crown Carnival time always has the people of Bathurst feeling good about what they have and what they’ve achieved, particularly in recent times – boasting one of the best harness racing facilities in the nation.

Not that the thrills were any less at the old Showground, in fact the former home of Bathurst pacing created an atmosphere that was electric and memories that will never be forgotten.

Of course, the Turnbull family have played a big part in the history and success of the sport in the central west city and still do.

Each year Steve and Jenny and their family add another role to their involvement by hosting a morning tea for visitors to the Carnival.

Their youngest, Mitch, remembers from when he was just a toddler watching how people from interstate and beyond would come to Radiant Lodge and enjoy a tour of The Lagoon.

Now Mitch is a successful reinsman in his own right and he loves nothing more than to get in amongst the action on the big nights.

“Unfortunately, it looks like being a pretty quiet Gold Crown Carnival for me, at this stage,” Turnbull said.

“I was looking forward to driving Courtinsession in the Mayor’s Cup, but he went amiss last week, which was very disappointing.

“But our stable has some nice horses shaping up for all the big races so we should be able to share in some of the spoils.”

Tonight, Mitch has three drives on the 10-race program at Bathurst with his best, Arty Pharty coming up in the final event.

“This little horse is flying and is finally showing the potential that was promised when we brought him over from New Zealand,” Turnbull said.

“He took a while to hit his straps when we first got him, but he has now won two of his past three and I feel that he can continue on his winning way tonight.”

Mitch will drive Just One More for brother Josh in Race 6 and Trioli for Dubbo-based trainer Brett Pay in Race 9.

“I won a race at Dubbo aboard Trioli and although she didn’t run fast time that night, she is a filly that I have a lot of time for,” Turnbull said.

“Her runs in the heat and final of the Evolution Series were good and I won’t be surprised if she runs a handy race again tonight.”

• MICHAEL DUMESNY