Australia’s leading harness racing reinsman James Herbertson will be back doing what he does best later this week, jumping straight into a book of driving engagements after a whirlwind two-month overseas adventure.
Despite his extended absence, Herbertson (108 wins) is still at the head of both the Victorian and National Driver’s Premiership list – albeit with just one win up his sleeve over Queensland’s Pete McMullen (107) on the National count. He is 30 clear of Chris Alford on the Victorian tally.
Herbertson is expected to arrive back in Australia late tonight after what was dubbed a “fact-finding” tour of the United States and Europe.
During his time in the US, Herbertson was attached to the stable of America’s all-time leading trainer Ron Burke. He broke through for a win at the Meadowlands for NJ trainer Michael Posner when he piloted Select Friday to victory on April 25.
After a brief return to Australia to honor his mentor and friend the late Greg Sugars, Herbertson resumed in the US with two victories at Scioto Downs in Ohio, partnering with Nvrpoptdaplugs for trainer Todd Luther and Leaving A Legend for Burke.
Herbertson then went on to Sweden to the Elitloppet, where he was based with top trainer Jörgen Westholm. He notched his first European win at Gävle in Sweden, driving Ready West to victory for Westholm – becoming the first Australian to win at Gävle.
And while future career plans are still to play out, on Friday night, it’s back to business for Herbertson. He has four drives lined up at Melton on Friday night and another six on Saturday.
The current National top five is: James Herbertson (108 wins); Pete McMullen Qld (107); Gary Hall Jnr WA (100); Robert Morris NSW (95); Wayne Hill SA (95).