News Article - Australian Harness Racing

Guerin: Queensland on radar for Merlin after Derby triumph

25 March 2023

Don’t be fooled by the small margin Merlin scaped home by in Friday night’s $135,000 Woodlands Derby.

Because driver Zachary Butcher is adamant the quality colt could have won the classic by a lot more had he wanted.

“That is just him, he doesn’t like running away from horses and just switches off,” said Butcher after his first win in the great race.

30 June 2026
WATCH: Mick and Mecarno set for Great challenge: Trainer-driver Michael Bellman has left the Victorian chill and is campaigning his star trotter Mecarno in Queensland, where he will chase a fourth career Group 1 in Saturday night's Great Square at Albion Park. CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE INTERVIEW

30 June 2026
Don won't be down for long: FORMER Inter Dominion champion Don Hugo won’t be sidelined for long. Trainer-driver Luke McCarthy said scratching his superstar from this Brisbane Inter Dominion series was in large part precautionary. “It’s not serious. I’d say it’s like a sprained ankle,” he said....

30 June 2026
WATCH: Bendigo's major projects set to start: Watch Rebecca Morrissey talk through the major works planned for Bendigo after tomorrow night's race meeting. CLICK HERE TO SEE THE VIDEO

30 June 2026
Wharton: Ray still trotting on strongly: Octogenarian Bet Bet breeder-owner-trainer Ray Cross is enjoying a purple patch with his small but select team of squaregaiters at the moment. CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL STORY

30 June 2026
GOODFORM – Ryan's take on Shepparton harness Tuesday night: Ryan Phelan has your tips and Quaddie for Shepparton harness tonight. CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ANALYSIS

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