Australia's leading reinsman James Herbertson is ready to embark on an exciting opportunity to further his harness racing career.
This afternoon the 24-year-old will jet off to France where he will have the chance to work with some of the world’s best in the industry.
During his trip, Herbertson will compete in the Prix des Rencontres Internationales du Trotteur Français at Vincennes and work alongside highly-regarded horseman Jean-Michel Bazire at the Domaine de Grosbois training center in Paris.
"I'm really looking forward to seeing Grosbois and experiencing it all firsthand. I'm also excited to sit behind some well-bred French trotters. And, of course, it’ll be great to take in a bit of Paris, seeing the landmarks and the history there," Herbertson said.
Herbertson is currently the leading driver in Australia with 344 victories this season, nearly a century of wins ahead of the next-best, Pete McMullen, on 247.
"I have mixed emotions about going. I'm happy with how things are ticking along here, but it'll be great to have a break and experience something different," he said.
The Prix des Rencontres Internationales du Trotteur Français at Vincennes is an invitational race that showcases top competitors from around the world. The event will be held next Friday, November 29, with 15 countries represented.
"I think the thing I'm most looking forward to is driving in the international race. It’s going to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience," Herbertson said.
"I'll be back by the 2nd or 3rd of December, just in time to drive in the second round of the Inter Dominion heats."
Herbertson is the second young driver to receive the all-expenses paid trip to France thanks to a generous opportunity from Le Trot and a flourishing partnership with Harness Racing Victoria.
Herbertson was announced as HRV's representative after meeting a range of selection criteria sent out to all licenced drivers under 25 in February this year. This criteria encompassed essential skills, qualifications and attributes, including professionalism, commitment, proven experience driving trotters and attendance at the young driver development program.
The Lexton-based Herbertson follows in the footsteps of fellow driver Ryan Sanderson, who pioneered the trip in 2023 and returned home with some amazing life experiences from his two-week stay in France.