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.

8 January 2026
Svanosio eyes third straight Maori Mile with Arcee Phoenix: Chris Svanosio’s connection with the Maori Mile on Bendigo Cup night runs deep. One of his first major career highlights came in the Group 1 when he drove Sparkling Success for John Meade, and years later the famous trotting feature has become a defining part of his story. Chris Svanosio, now a...

8 January 2026
LISTEN: Dan and Rob on Friday Night Lights: Dan Mielicki and Rob Auber take a close look at the upcoming Melton card on Friday Night Lights, thanks to the support of Squires Loft Sunbury. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN AT THETROTS.COM.AU

8 January 2026
LISTEN: Dan and Rob preview Bendigo Cup night: Dan Mielicki and Rob Auber break down all the action ahead of Saturday night’s brilliant Bendigo Cup card featuring stars from around the country. CLICK HERE TO LISTEN AT THETROTS.COM.AU

8 January 2026
VTDA to hold AGM next week: General business agenda items or executive committee nominations can be forwarded to the secretary by 5pm on Sunday, January 11. CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE DETAILS AT THETROTS.COM.AU

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