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.

29 January 2026
Nieuwenburg's Numbers: Cranbourne Cup night: Bronte Nieuwenburg has taken a deep dive into Saturday night’s Cranbourne Cup meeting, using stats and sectional times to break down the key runners. From the quickest gate speed, to the fastest swoopers and top overall performers, here’s a look at the best of each race, with a focus on horse,...

29 January 2026
Trial File: Reno Ace ready for Victorian debut: Harness Racing Victoria form guru Craig Rail noticed some standout runners at recent trials. CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL TRIAL FILE AT THETROTS.COM.AU

29 January 2026
LISTEN: Dan and Rob target Cranbourne Pacing Cup night: Dan Mielicki and Rob Auber break down Saturday night’s Cranbourne Pacing Cup meeting. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN AT THETROTS.COM.AU

29 January 2026
LISTEN: Dan and Rob on Friday Night Lights: Thanks to the support of Squires Loft Sunbury, Dan Mielicki and Rob Auber preview Friday’s action-packed 10-race card at Melton. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN AT THETROTS.COM.AU

29 January 2026
Talented Team back on track to make a Teal difference: Harness racing’s most successful partnership reignites this February when the sport’s talented reinswomen don their teal pants and resume the fight for ovarian and gynaecological cancer support and research. Team Teal’s 12th anniversary will build on more than $3.4 million raised for...

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