Sport
29 June, 2022
Young driver grabs first win
THE absence of trainer Matthew Craven proved no obstacle to victory as 19-year old Rory Coverdale earned her first winning drive in Hamilton last Friday.
THE absence of trainer Matthew Craven proved no obstacle to victory as 19-year old Rory Coverdale earned her first winning drive in Hamilton last Friday.
The Glenfyne native drove the Craven-trained Banksofthemurray to the win in the Kings Bakery Hamilton three-year-old pace, snatching victory over Hanging Fire and Martin Magic in the final moments.
Coverdale oscillated between fourth and second for much of the race, maintaining a steady pace before making her move on the final turn.
Turning to the centre of the track to clip leader-at-the-bell Hanging Fire, Coverdale led a surging Banksofthemurray to claim her first victory.
“It felt amazing,” she said.
“It was a good win, sitting nicely behind the leader."
“Coming round the home bend we pulled out and nobody really came with us."
“The first win feels like it’s been a long-time coming.”
Ms Coverdale began driving only a month ago, and has come close to notching wins in her first eight drives.
She said she had enjoyed the experience of working closely with Craven, learning the ins and outs of the industry.
“At first I did a one-day work placement with Matt but he offered me a full-time job,” she said.
“I enjoyed learning about the industry and he offered me an opportunity to get my trial license and it went on from there."
“I got my trial license two years ago and my actual license a month ago, so it feels great to get a winner in my ninth drive.”
Craven said he was proud of Coverdale reaping the rewards of her work ethic.
“She’s a good kid from a good family,” he said.
“She’s got a lot of support, so for her to get her license and her first win is something which makes you proud."
“It’s good to see her kicking goals, I’m really happy for her.”
Craven praised Coverdale’s drive, with the young gun showing experience beyond her years to guide Banksofthemurray home.
“She didn’t panic and for someone who has just started she’s doing really well."
“It’s all about going around and getting experience."
“So far she’s doing a really good job, and we’re not frightened to give keep giving her a few drives.”
Coverdale has also recently enjoyed the experience of “running the show” in Craven’s absence while he is campaigning in Queensland.
“He’s headed up to Queensland with seven horses and I’m here running the show with a couple of other workers,” Coverdale said.
“I’m chipping away with a few of the race horses and the babies are coming along nicely."
“I really want to thank Matt for giving me a go, and always supporting me along the way.”
Craven said he had no trepidations in handing the younger generation greater responsibility.
“We’ve got a good team working together but Rory is taking on the responsibility to make sure things happen, which is going to help her grow,” he said.
“It’s good of her to step up."
“She’s a terrific worker, she works extremely hard, and nothing is ever too hard or a trouble for her."
“It’s really nice to give someone an opportunity who wants to have a go.”