Young pacer Blaze Away ignites a Dream to share
Allan Sadler likes slot cars and sport. His wife Marie likes craft and baking. Now, after 29 years of marriage, they have a shared interest in cheering for their own racehorses at the trots.
The couple won five per cent shares in two pacers, a gelding called Blaze Away and a yet-to-be-named filly, in the recent Harness the Dream competition.
“We generally have completely different interests and hobbies. I guess that’s what keeps us interested in each other and we spend some time apart doing our own things,” Allan said.
“Being in this together gives us something we can both learn and enjoy.
“It’s an opportunity to work together and having two horses means some friendly competition.”
Marie adds harness racing is the first activity she and Allan have partnered in since their two adult daughters started playing hockey as kids.
At that time, Allan took on an umpiring role while Marie became junior director. They’re sticking to form with their new pastime, with each taking a completely different approach to their trips to Gloucester Park or the Pinjarra trots.
“I look at the pretty horses and like to know they’re safe and OK. He concentrates on the training and who’s running,” Marie said.
Marie Sadler joined Harness the Dream to meet the horses, her husband Allan for the excitement of being an owner
Allan entered Harness the Dream after seeing flyers during a trip to the trots, thinking at the very least he and Marie would get an insight to harness racing and a night out together.
“As a child my dad used to take me to the trots at the Melbourne Showgrounds and Moonee Valley, whereas Marie had never been until we moved to Perth,” he said.
“After the prize draw we were in absolute shock. We knew we had a chance but we weren’t thinking we’d win.
“I look forward to the excitement of having a vested interest in a horse that is racing and not just my betting interest.
“At the workshops and presentations for Harness the Dream, everyone has said how exciting it is being an owner.
“Marie is looking forward to being able to get up close and personal with the horses, as she has always loved them and this is a real chance to be involved.”
Chief Racing Officer David Hunter said Harness the Dream gave new owners a journey of discovery to the sport through free events including a stable tour with a leading trainer and masterclass with racing experts followed by the grand finale at the WA Pacing Cup at Gloucester Park on January 27.
“Our first Harness the Dream competition last year included 11 teams of two and we’ve built on that success with 32 teams this year,” David said.
“By giving winners a share in two racehorses, a gelding and a filly, we’re creating more chances to enjoy the excitement of going to the races and celebrate success.
“The prize includes all training fees paid to TrotSynd until 30 June 2024.”
For more information go to harnessthedreamwa.com.au.
Susan de Ruyter