Five generations of the Turnbull family from The Lagoon near Bathurst have made a significant impact on the harness racing industry.
It all started in the 1920’s when Albert ‘Captain’ Turnbull and his brother George set the scene for what was to become one of the sport’s most famous dynasties.
On Monday afternoon at Eugowra an additional chapter was written into the amazing and ongoing story when sixteen-year-old Ella Turnbull picked up her first race winning drive aboard Kadar.
Ella is the daughter of prominent Western Districts trainer Josh Turnbull, and his wife Jess, and the great-great granddaughter of George who made it all happen in the first place.
Ella was applauded all the way back into the winner’s circle by a big contingent of family members and friends who were at Eugowra to witness the special moment.
The win came at Ella’s fourth drive in a race, and she showed patience beyond her years to move down to the marker pegs from gate two with the veteran pacer, eventually ending up being buried three back on the inside after being crossed firstly by Dancing With My Ex, and then by race favourite Mammals Girl.
From there Ella played a waiting game, resisting the opportunity to move away from the inside, which was a winning decision as she gained a saloon passage in the home straight, racing clear to score by two and a half metres in a 1:57 mile rating.
“This is a dream come true,” said Ella after the race.
“We purchased this horse from Queensland, and I have completed most of my trial drives on him, so to win my first race with him is just so exciting.”
“Coming to the bell he was travelling so well, but we were hemmed away in an awkward spot on the pegs.”
“I could have come off them a few times in the last lap but luckily I decided not to as the run up the inside presented itself and the old horse sprinted so well.”
“Having Mum and Dad here along with all the family and a lot of my friends just made it all the more special and it was pretty cool winning in front of such a big crowd.”
“Mum and Dad and my extended family have been so supportive, giving me so much help, encouragement and opportunities along the way.”
