Well-travelled junior driver Charli Masotti will add a much-needed boost to Tasmania’s Claiming Novice Drivers numbers, having moved to the state on Thursday.
The 21-year-old was in the state two weeks ago, when she was considering taking up a role with the Conor Crook stable, which she ultimately accepted.
“I saw Jordy (Chibnall) at the Miracle Mile (in Sydney), and we got talking, and she messaged me later and said that if I was interested, to let her know. So I came down for a week and loved it, and now I have decided to make the move,” said Masotti. Originally from Mildura, the third-generation participant has hit the road to learn from some of the nation’s best trainers.
“I started off with Emma Stewart, and I was on and off there for two years, and then I went to Andy and Kate Gath for about six months, and then I made the move to New South Wales to work for Nathan and Mitch Turnbull.”
Masotti will be chasing her first Tasmanian win when she partners the expected favourite, Mary Mourne (pictured), in the first race in Launceston on Friday night, the Victory Images Photography Stakes (1680m).
The seven-year-old Panspacificflight mare has had five starts since joining the Conor Crook stable for four wins, two of those in a sub 1:57.0s mile rate.
“She should go really close.
“I drove her when I was down before, and she felt like a really nice horse that is racing well at the moment,” said the driver.
Masotti’s other drive on the Launceston card is Knock Out in race two, which she has previously driven.
“I was happy with him when I last drove him, and hopefully, he can keep punching along as he has been.”
Friday’s Launceston card features seven races and commences at 17:11.
