Ferguson Earns State Honours
11 May, 2017
Harness
Micheal Ferguson said he is delighted to be making his interstate debut against a host of Australia’s best young drivers in Sydney next month.
After winning the 2016-17 Garrard’s Junior Concession Driver Challenge, Ferguson will represent WA in the New South Wales Rising Star Series.
“I’m really excited and honoured to be representing WA and I’m really looking forward to it,” Ferguson said.
“It’s a great opportunity to get my name out on a national stage against some of Australia’s best young drivers.
“It will also definitely be a great learning experience and I’m hoping to pick up things that I can bring back home.”
Ferguson joined previous winners Kristy Sheehy (2013-14, 2014-15) and Stuart McDonald (2015-16) as Garrard’s champions.
He secured the title in the final heat at Pinjarra on May 8 after guiding the Barry Howlett-trained Heza Head Honcho.
Ferguson formed a strong association with the Howlett stable after driving Major Stare to victory twice.
He also had wins with Clever Cover, trained by Russell Eddy, Raffaello, prepared by Peter Kimberley and Ashleigh Markham’s Falling Starzzz.
“Driving for different stables was also another great benefit of the series,” Ferguson said.
“I formed partnerships with trainers and owners I would never usually drive for.
“The experience to be involved with different horses was terrific.”
Racing And Wagering Western Australia (RWWA) Harness Driving Coach and WA Hall Of Fame inductee, Trevor Warwick, said Ferguson was displaying positive development.
“I actually think throughout the series we have seen his driving go up another notch,” Warwick said.
“I think he has taken a step out of the shadow and his confidence has soared.
“I believe he can see the results when given the opportunities.
“I’m looking forward to see him compete in Sydney against other drivers.
“I firmly believe he will come back an even better driver.”
Ferguson, who collected almost $3000 in prize money and trophies for his Garrard’s success, staved off a strong challenge from runner-up, Lauren Jones.
Jones finished just 11 points shy of Ferguson after driving home Jasper Whitby and Challenging for Donald Harper and Clinton Kimes respectively.
“Lauren was another good surprise throughout the series,” Warwick said.
“She was always around the mark and keeps on improving.
“Each series she was very, very good.”
The New South Wales Rising Stars Series will be staged in Sydney between June 18 and 25.
Ferguson |
77 |
Jones |
66 |
Roberts |
60 |
Brown |
50 |
McDonough |
45 |
M.Young |
40 |
Miller |
39 |
J.Young |
36 |
Edwards |
33 |
Grantham |
29 |
Hamilton-Smith |
29 |
Chabros |
25 |
Peterson |
21 |
Blakemore |
18 |
McDonald |
12 |
Wood |
10 |
Justins |
08 |
Baxter |
00 |
Photo: Ashley Brennan Photography