Harness racing has taken on a serious tone for renowned thoroughbred trainer John Hawkes, whose passion for the sport has evolved from a hobby to a significant pursuit alongside his powerhouse stable in Sydney and Melbourne. With a fleet of around 60 horses under his tutelage, including the promising Briasa, a contender for the TAB Everest, Hawkes delves into the world of harness racing driven by nostalgia and a deep-rooted love for the sport.
Reflecting on his upbringing in Adelaide surrounded by harness racing luminaries, Hawkes reminisces about his formative years spent at the Wayville track and the influence of legendary trainers. His affinity for pacers led him to own and race numerous standardbreds over the years, often in collaboration with trainer Geoff Webster, fostering a bond with the sport that endures to this day.
One of Hawkes’ latest ventures in harness racing involves the emerging talent Seathestars, a three-year-old with a pedigree reminiscent of the renowned Irish thoroughbred after whom he is named. Despite a modest track record, Seathestars shows promise, with aspirations for a Queensland Derby campaign looming on the horizon, contingent on a standout performance at Melton.
Seathestars, with a track record comprising three wins and multiple placings, recently clinched victory at Melton, showcasing potential that Hawkes believes can be further honed. While acknowledging the young pacer’s need to refine his racing style, Hawkes remains optimistic about Seathestars’ trajectory, guided by the expertise of trainer Geoff Webster.
Expanding his harness racing portfolio, Hawkes made a notable splash at the Nutrien Sydney Yearling Sales by acquiring two promising yearlings for future campaigns. Backed by a consortium of notable figures in the racing industry, including jockeys Tommy Berry, Tyler Schiller, and Zac Lloyd, Hawkes’ foray into yearling acquisitions underscores his commitment to nurturing talent in the sport.
Among the acquisitions is a coveted Captaintreacherous colt, born to Island Banner, a descendant of the esteemed NZ Cup-winning mare Mainland Banner, symbolizing Hawkes’ strategic investment in harness racing prospects. Additionally, a colt sired by the illustrious King Of Swing, a three-time Miracle Mile winner under Luke McCarthy’s tutelage, further bolsters Hawkes’ burgeoning stable.
As Hawkes balances his thriving thoroughbred stable with his burgeoning interest in harness racing, anticipation builds for Briasa’s return to the track following a hiatus. With sights set on prestigious events like the Everest, Hawkes remains confident in Briasa’s potential, underpinned by raw talent that promises greater success in the future.
Amidst the successes of the current season, Hawkes looks forward to unveiling a cohort of promising two-year-olds in the forthcoming racing calendar, marking a period of transition and growth for his stables across both codes of racing. As he navigates the dual worlds of thoroughbred and harness racing, Hawkes’ passion and vision continue to shape his legacy in the Australian racing landscape.
📰 Related Articles
- Young Harness Racing Talent Ryan Backhouse Drives Success with Stellar Performances
- The Legacy and Ambitions of Harness Racing: Neville Martin’s Journey
- Tasmanian Harness Racing Trainer Banned Over Welfare Breaches
- John Bagshaw: Harness Racing Icon’s Lasting Breeding Legacy
- First-time Trainer Celebrates Maiden Victory in Harness Racing Triumph