McShane Dares To Dream
26 July, 2018
Harness
Garry McShane says despite the passage of time he clearly remembers his last win. It came almost a decade ago, but the memories are still vivid.
The horse was Master Beaudale and the year 2009. It was McShane’s 17th career victory and came 15 years after he took out his trainer’s license.
On Friday the hobby trainer, based at Coolup, will set out on one of his rare visits to Perth to take on the big guns of WA harness racing.
McShane is hoping to earn his biggest windfall with Livin La Bamba in the $35,000 John Higgins Memorial (2130m) at Gloucester Park.
McShane is daring to dream.
“It would a great achievement if we were able to win it,” McShane said.
“I’m just rapt and excited to be in the final.
“I only have the one horse in work so an opportunity doesn’t come around often.
“It will a great experience and I’m looking forward to the race.”
Livin La Bamba qualified for the Higgins Memorial after charging home to dead-heat with Jimmy Mac in a Bunbury heat on July 17.
Jimmy Mac, trained by Ross Olivieri, will start from the coveted No 1 barrier. Champion reinsman has elected to drive him over Simba Bromac.
McShane believes Simba Bromac, to commence from barrier two for Nathan Turvey, will be the hardest to beat.
“In my view and from what I have seen Simba Bromac is the better horse,” McShane said.
“His win in town the other time was very impressive and quite blistering.
“I’m not sure what will happen at the start, but he will hard to beat.”
Livin La Bamba will commence from barrier seven. Stuart McDonald retains the drive.
“His style of racing will have him go back,” McShane said.
“Hopefully he won’t get caught behind slow horses.
“I have faith in Stuart who is an underrated and underutilised driver.”
Julio Santarelli