THEY’VE won almost 20,000 races and just shy of $140million, but at Globe Derby on Saturday night, none of that matters.
What does matter is a stroke of luck and bragging rights as a host of the nation’s leading drivers compete in the Australian Drivers’ Championship.
A dozen of the industry’s stars – two representatives from each state – will contest in a six heats, with the title holder to be decided on points.
Performances throughout the series will also be taken into consideration when determining who will represent Australia in next year’s World Driving Championship to be conducted in Canada.
While each competitor is looking to enjoy the experience, make no mistake, pride for state and self is on the line.
Ricky Duggan (Tasmania)
First Win: Benita Michelle at New Norfolk, 28 November 1987
Wins: 1457
Biggest Win: 2007 Easter Cup
Prizemoney won: $7million
“It will be great. I’ve been lucky enough in all three and they’re fun. Will be good to represent Tassie and catch up with the others for a top night.”
Shane Graham (Queensland)
First Win: Abide at Rocklea, 8 August 1998
Wins: 2341
Biggest Win: 2016 APG 2yo Fillies Final
Prizemoney won: $13million“I’m really looking to it…will be terrific. It will be fun to drive against the others, drive different horses on a track I don’t normally go to.”
Gary Hall (Western Australia)
First Win: Enhancer at Pinjarra, 26 July 1998
Wins: 2361
Biggest Win: 2011, 2012 & 2013 Inter Dominion
Prizemoney won: $28million
“Always enjoys these kind of series. It will be terrific to compete against these drivers, who are certainly going to be competitive. It’s my third year and it would be nice to win it though.”
Wayne Hill (South Australia)
First Win: Ima Gigi at Globe Derby, 20 July 1999
Wins: 935
Biggest Win: SA St Ledger
Prizemoney won: $3 Million
“I’m pumped…it will be a blast! Wish I had a few better draws for a home state win. It’s going to be great to be a part of and watch with the top drivers competing.”
Ryan Hryhorec (South Australia)
First Win: James Colin at Kimba 25 April 1996
Wins: 1577
Biggest Win: 2013 Southern Cross 2yo Fillies Final
Prizemoney won: $5million
“I’m really looking forward to the series. It will be great to compete against the best from interstate and have a bit of fun in the process.”
Jason Lee (Victoria)
First Win: Jilliby Dasher at Maryborough 9 Sept 2011
Wins: 334
Biggest Win: 2015 APG 2yo Fillies Final
Prizemoney won: $2 Million
“It should be a terrific night. It’s a privilege to be representing Victoria and competing against that quality of opposition. Looking forward to every aspect of it…the racing and having a laugh.”
Chris Lewis (Western Australia)
First Win: Classis Heir at Kapunda in 1971
Wins: 4955
Biggest Wins: 1976 & 1986 Inter Dominion
Prizemoney won: $38million
“Really looking forward to being back in Adelaide where I started. Everyone has some good drives and chances.”
Todd McCarthy (New South Wales)
First Win: Count The Cards at Gold Coast 16 April 2010
Wins: 506
Biggest Win: 2016 Ladyship Mile
Prizemoney won: $5million
“I’m really excited about it. It’s my first time in the series and driving at Globe Derby, so it will be fun and a great night’s racing.”
Pete McMullen (Queensland)
First Win: Melton Royal Bonny at Redcliffe 12 January 2008
Wins: 1352
Biggest Win: 2015 Darrell Alexander Memorial
Prizemoney won: $6million
“I had a bit of luck there a couple of years ago and it would be nice if that can happen again. Getting the win is just the bonus, the main thing is to enjoy it.”
Greg Sugars (Victoria)
First Win: Escrow at Globe Derby, 5 December 2000
Wins: 2281
Biggest win: 2011 Victoria Deby
Prizemoney won: $18million
“Always enjoys these invitational series. They’re fun and it’s good to mix with the top drivers from the various states. Be nice to at least get one win during the night.”
Amanda Turnbull (New South Wales)
First Win: Wollomi at Orange on 11 March 2006
Wins: 1371
Biggest Win: 2014 Breeders Crown 3yo Fillies Final on Just Cala
Prizemoney won: $9 Million
Mark Yole (Tasmania)
First Win: Vanderbart at Gawler, 4 March 2004
Wins: 317
Biggest Win: 2007 Evicus Final on Ima Miss Molly
Prizemoney won: $2 Million
“I can’t wait to get to Adelaide. Be a great enjoyable experience and fun, but I’m also hoping to come away with the title.”