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The 10 drivers that will compete in the inaugural Garrards Horse and Hound Young Guns Series have been revealed.
James Herbertson, Jack Laugher, Ryan Sanderson, Taylor Youl, Declan Murphy, Jordan Leedham, Jordan Chibnall and Ryan Backhouse qualified for the December 31 showdown by being among the state’s top eight drivers under the age of 25 based on winners throughout 2023 (to December 15).
Herbertson topped the list with 245 wins, while Backhouse snuck into eighth spot after his haul of five at Mildura on December 12. He now has 40 victories this season and narrowly tips out Lochie Cook, who sits ninth on the under-25 standings with 38.
Harness Racing Victoria’s stewards then settled on Codi Rauchenberger (pictured) and Shannon O’Sullivan as the two “wild card” recipients after considering driving achievements, integrity-related conduct and associated compliance with the rules.
The series puts a new spin on the annual New Year’s Eve meeting from Melton Entertainment Park, which has been home to the Group 1 Vicbred Super Series finals in recent seasons.
The 10 drivers will compete in eight ratings-exempt races through the course of the night, with a sliding points scale based on finishing positions used to declare an overall winner.
Thanks to Garrards, the 2023 Young Guns Series champion will receive a Cobra sulky with FMT wheels in the colours of their choice.
HRV’s Corporate Partnerships Manager Andrew Pirchan said none of the young drivers would go home empty-handed on the night.
“Thanks to many of our amazing partners, the young drivers could also win a range of prizes throughout the evening including a $250 Catanach’s Jewellers voucher, a $100 Peter Jackson menswear voucher, a personalised pair of racing pants or silks thanks to Hyland Sportswear or one of three $50 fuel cards thanks to Falvo Fruits,” Pirchan said.
“Hygain has generously donated merchandise packs for every young driver participating in the series, and to add a small incentive for trainers as well, they have provided a supplements pack for each of the eight Young Guns Series races. These will go to those that finish in fifth place.”
Thousands are expected to attend Melton on December 31 for the racing, on-track activities and midnight fireworks display.
