Jason Lee in action
WHEN talented reinsman Jason Lee heads to Perth next week, he will do so with a philosophical attitude.
Lee will make the trip across the Nullarbor for the Australasian Young Drivers’ Championship, where he’ll carry the hopes Victorians throughout the series.
To be conducted as a 10-race series, the Championship begins with a heat at Gloucester Park on December 2 before heading to various country venues and returning to Gloucester Park for the final leg on December 9 – Inter Dominion Day.
Drivers from across Australasia will compete in the event, with each Australian state selecting a representative, along with four from New Zealand.
As for Lee’s relaxed approach, it stems from his experience in similar tournaments this year.
“Luck plays a big role in a series like this,” Lee said. “You don’t know your drives heading into it, so you’re relying on luck for the right draws and horses.
“I’m certainly hoping I can come away with the win, but first I need that early luck with the draws.”
Along with the chance to sport the Big V colours, Lee is looking forward to competing against some of the Southern Hemisphere’s brightest stars while experience the different racing venues in Western Australia.
“I’ve never been to WA before, so I am really looking forward to it,” Lee said. “It will be great to race on the various tracks and compete against the others.
“I’m also looking forward to getting to know the drivers in the series and having a good time, especially with it all being conducted during the Inter Dominion.”
Lee was always destined to be a harness racing participant, with his family’s involvement dating back several generations and spreading through multiple branches of his clan.
From his grandparents – Harold and Alice Craven - to his mother Marg and prominent cousins, Glen and Matthew Craven, Lee was never going to select anything other than a life with standardbreds.
Since making his debut in September 2011, Lee has made a rapid climb through the ranks to establish himself as one of Victoria’s leading concession drivers.
