Junior driver Abbey Vidovich winning on Mister Linton Photo by Pacepix
Junior Drivers are reaping the rewards of the new handicapping system in WA with statistics showing a large increase in wins for the novice drivers.
In 2024, we saw 14 individual novice drivers take out 79 races throughout the year, and this year is already shaping up to surpass those statistics, with 29 races won just five weeks into the new season.
In January, Racing WA introduced a fortnightly penalty free Junior Drivers series run at various tracks
"The early results of the national ratings handicapping system and the programming have been positive, and one of the most exciting aspects has been the increased opportunities for our novice drivers.”
“In January 2025, we've seen a significant rise in their participation, with double the number of wins compared to the same period last year.”
“This demonstrates that the new system is creating a more balanced and competitive racing environment, giving emerging talent the chance to showcase their skills and establish themselves in the industry.”
“It's fantastic to see fresh faces making an impact, and we look forward to continuing to support the next generation of drivers as they develop their careers in WA harness racing." Racing WA’s Head of Harness Cameron Brown said.
Tom Bryant who has a total of four career wins has already claimed two winners this year, with 35-year-old steering home Gee Smith to victory on January 14 at Bunbury and then again on Monday at Pinjarra with Trittrittbangbang, both trained by Matt Scott.
“Personally, I am loving the new system. It has created the chance for me to be able to gain more race drives and I’ve been fortunate enough to have winning success through these opportunities.”
“The new system has made it more enticing for trainers to use concession drivers to gain advantages for their horses.” Tom Bryant said.
Tom Bryant made his debut in 2021 and drove his first winner the following year in 2022. Not coming from a harness racing background, that has created its own set of disadvantages for Bryant, but he is confident that the new harness racing system here in WA will only benefit drivers like him.
“The number of junior drivers now coming through is only going to be a positive result for harness racing in WA and the list should grow even bigger if others can see that there are opportunities out there for everyone who is willing to work hard and give it a go.”
“With the support and guidance of our driving mentor Aldo Cortopassi, the junior drivers in Perth will only get better and hopefully reach the heights in participant numbers like they have on the east coast.”
Joseph Suvaljko drove 19 winners in 2024 and so far into 2025 he is already sitting on 11 wins after an incredible start to the new year.
Liam Elliott saluted three times including the 2025 Albany Cup on board Hillview Bondi for Ryan Bell.
The new handicapping system allows trainers to claim a five-point deduction on their horses rating by enlisting a junior driver claim.
Novice Driver Wins for 2025:
Tom Bryant: 2
Liam Elliot: 3
Ryan Eyre: 1
Sara Grout: 2
Lachlan Kennelly: 1
Toby Lynn: 3
Kylah Madden: 1
Tom Nally: 1
Daniel Suvaljko: 1
Joseph Suvaljko: 11
