Australia’s leading reinsman James Herbertson, at just 25 years of age, has already notched up some extraordinary achievements – but there are still a couple of boxes he’s determined to tick.
One of them is the prestigious Australasian Young Drivers Championship, which kicks off at Albion Park tomorrow (July 15) during Inter Dominion week.
Herbertson will be among a sensational line-up of young talent from across Australia and New Zealand vying for the title across a 10-race series.
It’s an event he’s hungry to win – not just for the honour, but to add a missing piece to a rapidly growing resume.
The Victorian star, who returned recently from a winning overseas campaign in the USA (three wins) and Sweden (one win), is currently heading Australia’s national driving premiership with 138 wins, and is 20 wins clear at the top of the national leaderboard. But he’s well aware that AYDC glory – and even a tilt at an Inter Dominion championship – would be the icing on the cake of a unforgettable season.
Herbertson is also set to drive Rakero Rebel in Saturday’s Inter Dominion Pacing Final, drawn barrier two for trainer Jess Tubbs.
“I was lucky enough to go up for the same event in Queensland a couple of years ago and that was great,” Herbertson said.
“I thought I was too old to go this year, but luckily I’ve snuck under the radar and I’m able to go again and have a good time.
“They are great series and there’s a few different Kiwis coming across this year, which will be good.”
With a level of depth and talent rarely seen at the championship, the 2025 edition highlights just how bright the emerging harness racing talent is on both sides of the Tasman.
Joining Herbertson are fellow Australian stars Jett Turnbull (NSW) and Emily Suvaljko (WA), both of whom sit inside the top 20 of the national drivers’ premiership.
Suvaljko, who has over 730 career wins and two Group 1s, will compete in her final AYDC before ageing out of eligibility.
New Zealand brings a powerhouse squad with Wilson House (3rd on NZ Premiership), Harrison Orange and Carter Dalgety (5th and 6th respectively), and reigning champion Sam Thornley returning to defend his 2023 title.
Queensland’s hopes rest with local rising star Chloe Butler, fresh off a breakout season that saw her win the state’s Young Drivers Championship. Tasmania’s Brodie Davis, a Group 3 winner and former pony trot standout, brings youthful enthusiasm and form to his first AYDC appearance. South Australia’s Bernadette Page rounds out the field after a breakout 2024 season with 63 wins and the SA Leading Young Driver award.
The 10-race series begins with three heats at Albion Park tomorrow, followed by three more heats at that venue on Wednesday night, then three at Redcliffe on Friday. The final points-bearing heat will be held as part of Inter Dominion Grand Final night at Brisbane’s Albion Park on Saturday, July 19. The title will be decided on points accumulated across the series.
In addition to the racing, drivers will participate in professional development and social activities, strengthening bonds across states and nations.
Hoofnote: Tayla French of Bendigo won the Young Driver’s title in 2022. Tayla is set to partner Parisia Artiste in the ID25 Trotters Grand Final on Saturday night.