Bronte Miller’s name will return to the form guide for the first time since January 2023 in Hobart on Friday night and will do so in a new capacity as trainer.
Miller was the state’s leading female driver in the 2022 season and hasn’t driven since 29 January 2023 after several injuries sustained in a motor vehicle accident when returning home from the races.
“It has taken a long time, but recovery is going really well. Things are finally starting to get back to normal.
One thing that is getting back to normality is her recent clearance from medical experts to recommence race driving, which has seen her compete in recent trials.
“The trial drives are going well. I have been fortunate to drive for other people, which has been great. It has also been great to drive and experience other horses again. I should be back driving in the new year.
The 20-year-old will have her first three starters as a trainer on the seven-race card, something that she has always wanted to do.
“Dad has trained since 2006, and it’s always been something I wanted to do, and I didn’t expect to do it this early on. But not being able to race drive for almost two years, I decided while I had the time to learn more about the industry’s training aspect.
“I just hope to get a winner, but I’m happy to keep it as a hobby for now,” said Miller.
The trainer doesn’t have a lot of confidence that her first winner will come on Friday but is expecting her runners to improve.
Nancys Hope in the Tasmanian Horse Transport Pace (2090m) will be the first runner that she saddles up, with the mare being second-up from a spell.
“She has a lot of issues, and I’m just hoping she can improve on last week,” said the trainer.
In the More Confidence Consulting Pace (1609m) Miller has Jumping Jolt engaged from barrier four.
“He has a tough draw against a tough field, but he is consistent and loves the mile.
Rounding out her night is stable favourite Dapper, who was her last winning drive, in the Fehlbergs Produce Sprint Lane Pace (2090m).
“He is first up with a wide draw and will benefit from the run,” said Miller.
The Hobart card will be shown exclusively on Sky Racing 2, with the first race scheduled for 17:35.