Harness Purists

26/09/2025

Amazing morsel of Southland history here

25/09/2024

Trail-blazing horsewoman Denice Swain passed away on Tuesday, aged 75.

per Matt Markham, Twitter/X

12/09/2024

Last week, Dr Luk Chin set a new record as the oldest person ever to drive a winner in New Zealand at 81 years, 233 days.

He eclipsed the mark previously set by Mick Prendergast in 2015.

He then set another new mark four days later at Cambridge, with Chesinov.

Chin, who is having is best ever season as a trainer and driver, says his driving retirement is not far away due to a constantly aching body.

per Garrick Knight, HarnessXpress
photo: Angelique Bridson/Race Images

11/09/2024

Former Tapanui horseman Alan Shaw died in Christchurch on September 1, aged 86.
His wife Valda passed just six days later.

Shaw trained 24 winners in a 43-year training career that ended earlier this year.

His best performer was no doubt the eight-race winner Superstaragogo who also placed at Group 2 level for him at Alexandra Park in the 2002 Challenge/Lyell Creek Stakes.

photo: Tayler Strong/Harness Racing Weekly (2011)

11/09/2024

Unbeaten, champion filly Millwood Nike has been retired after another injury setback.
Mark Purdon said she was "up with Adore Me" amongst the best female horses he has trained.
She won all 17 career starts including six at Group 1 level.

per Michael Guerin, X/Twitter
Photo: Race Images

20/08/2024

That first win feeling 🫶

Kate Coppins pictured with the proud support crew after her first winning drive tonight at Cambridge Raceway aboard President Flynntin for Jill Coppins.

Check out Kate's post race comments the next post on the page!

06/08/2024

Former Rowe Cup winner Bolt For Brilliance has been retired by trainer, Tony Herlihy due to ongoing breathing issues.

per Michael Guerin, X/Twitter

Photo: Race Images

23/05/2024

A retro throwback to get you all sweaty

03/07/2023

From the archives...

Dave Mcgowan Harness Racing took star trotter Special Force ('Ernie') to Scandinavia with driver, Todd MacFarlane, in 1999.

09/03/2023

A huge loss to the breeding industry.
A gentleman with a real passion for pedigrees and breeding.

We sadly share that Tony passed away peacefully Monday 6th March following a long illness. At the request of the family a private service has been held. In lieu of flowers, donations to Neuro Endocrine Cancer NZ in memory of Tony would be appreciated.
https://givealittle.co.nz/org/Neuroendocrine-Cancer-NZ