Five generations of the Turnbull family from The Lagoon near Bathurst have had a significant impact on the harness racing industry.
It all started in the 1920s when Albert ‘Captain’ Turnbull and his brother George set the stage for what would become one of the sport’s most famous dynasties.
On Monday afternoon in Eugowra, an additional chapter in the amazing and ongoing story was written when sixteen-year-old Ella Turnbull took her first race-winning ride aboard the Kadar.
Ella is the daughter of prominent Western Districts coach Josh Turnbull, and his wife Jess, and the great-granddaughter of George who made it all possible.
Ella was cheered into the winner’s circle by a large group of family and friends who were present in Eugowra to witness the special moment.
The win came on Ella’s fourth ride in a race, and she showed patience beyond her years to get to the marks from gate two with the experienced pacer, ultimately finishing with three buried on the inside after being passed first by Dancing With My Ex and then by race favorite Mammals Girl.
From there Ella played a waiting game and resisted the opportunity to go away from the inside, which was a winning decision as she reached a saloon passage on the home straight, racing clear to score by two and a half meters in a 1:57 mile rating.
“This is a dream come true,” Ella said after the race.
“We bought this horse from Queensland and I’ve done most of my trials with him, so it’s so exciting to win my first race with him.”
“When he rang the bell, he was traveling so well, but we were sitting on the pegs in an awkward spot.”
“I could have gotten away a few more times on the last lap, but luckily I didn’t because the run to the inside presented itself and the old horse sprinted so well.”
“Having mum and dad here, along with all the family and a lot of my friends, made it all the more special and it was pretty cool to win in front of such a big crowd.”
“Mum and Dad and my extended family have been so supportive and given me so much help, encouragement and opportunities along the way.”
Through Michael Dumesnyfor HRNSW
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