From the Callers Box – August 2024

How far has the state of Queensland harness evolved?

Well, judging by the recent Constellations carnival, the once regarded minnow state is now firmly entrenched as one of the leading jurisdictions within the country.

Currently, Leap To Fame, the best pacer in the world, resides in the Sunshine State while the depth as far as our participants goes, well, it speaks for itself.

Names like Grant Dixon, Pete McMullen, Nathan Dawson, Shane Graham, Chantal Turpin, Graham Dwyer and Jack Butler are constants in the winners’ circle while the throng of younger talent is equally impressive with Angus Garrad, Leonard Cain, Brendan Barnes, Narissa McMullen, Nathan Rothwell and many others also forging solid careers.

During the recent carnival, the ‘locals’ held their own in which, the competition is becoming harder and harder.

The ‘locals’ know they must step it up at carnival time while interstate and New Zealander raiders are now becoming shrewder about which performers to bring north.

Competition is extremely high.

But that’s great for racing overall.

The Queensland Constellations has quickly become the best carnival on the harness racing calendar.

So, back to my original question, how far has Queensland evolved?

Well, are we now at a stage where we can stage heats and a final for Gr.1 events like the Derby and Oaks and maybe even some four-year-old features?

The heats and final of Oaks and Derby classics are staged in Sydney and Melbourne, so why not Brisbane?

Numbers over the past years alone indicate that this is probably the best way forward.

Everyone involved knows what’s required, the top six from two heats qualify and meet the following week in the final.

The benefits are obvious for the all-important turnover as well.

Overall, the Constellations caters for most; pacers and trotters, juvenile and mature types, there’s something for everyone.

But with some further fine tuning, maybe the Constellations can be even stronger?

Now, there’s a thought!

Until next time.