First-generation harness racing inspiration Rory Coverdale has been invited to compete in the J C Caffyn Plate at Menangle on October 26.
The $20,400 Plate is a keenly-contested annual race for Indigenous drivers, who have been rewarded for their consistency among a large field of eligible participants.
Each Indigenous driver is allotted five points for every win around New South Wales, with three points for finishing second and two points for third. From that leaderboard, a final field is selected for the Caffyn Plate along with two invitational drivers.
Coverdale, the 21-year-old trainer and driver from Skibo (near Terang), caught the eye with some impressive efforts around Victoria and was selected as one of those invited to contest the feature event.
“It means a lot to me as I get recognised as being Aboriginal and I get to represent Victoria. Also, for my nan who is Aboriginal, it means a lot to her as well. It’s exciting!” Coverdale said.
“It will be really good to drive on a different track that’s so big. I’ve been to Menangle before and watched it, but I think driving on it is going to be different. It’s going to be really good to get the feeling of it.”
Besides her hard work and commitment to the sport, Coverdale has always attributed her success to the support she has from those around her, especially her family, who will be in attendance next weekend.
“I think we are hiring a bus and there will be 10 of us going,” she said.
The journey in harness racing started for Coverdale one day when she was passing Margaret Lee’s property with her mother and stated: “I am going to work there one day!”. She followed her dreams and ended up working for Lee and then Matthew Craven, who showed her the ropes of the industry.
Coverdale, who has now trained and driven a winner on her own, inspires and advocates for others to get involved in the sport.
“Get out there and give it a go,” she said.
“There are so many amazing people to learn from in the industry. The horses are so good for your mental health and it’s just really good to talk to different people and get to know the industry.
“Follow your dreams and never give up!”
