With a career as a driver dating back to 1979 and a lifetime of working with horses in addition to his day job in goat farming, Robinson brings both experience and composure to a pair of promising Jason Teaz-trained trotters.
Robinson first stepped into the sulky on race day more than four decades ago and became involved in the game through his father. Although horses have always been a part of his life, he eventually made his living elsewhere.
“For the past 31 years I have been a goat farmer and have worked the horses as a hobby,” he says. “As far as driving goes, I haven’t pursued a car career in a while.”
Normally, Robinson sticks to managing the small team he prepares himself. But his bond with Teaz began when the Ohaupo trainer was looking for a steady hand for one of his more difficult trotters.
“He called me one day to say they were having problems with Veronica Jane and he wanted a regular driver for her.”
Robinson’s first assignment tonight is Wynberg Janie in the Christmas Movie Series, December 7, 14 and 21 Trot. The five-year-old daughter of Majestic Son has had just two starts, but her latest run in Cambridge turned heads. After making the mistake on her debut at Alexandra Park, she returned to Cambridge and produced a flawless performance to score her first win.
“In Auckland she looked like she was in a bit of a panic at the shoot, but recently she had a lovely trip and I know Jason is thinking about her a bit,” Robinson said. “I’ve never ridden her before, so I’ll just have to take it as it comes. She’s a class above, so it’ll be a little bit harder for her.”
Later on the card, Robinson is reunited with a mare he knows inside and out: Veronica Jane in the Happy Hire Handicap Trot. She had an impressive final start and managed to win by six lengths. Although she steps up in class and distance tonight and faces a 20m handicap, Robinson remains optimistic.
“Her best races have been over 2200 meters, and this is 2-7. I don’t think the distance will worry her though,” he said. “The two wins she’s had have pushed her forward and she seems a lot happier when she’s there. Whether she can find the front from 20 yards may be a bit of a question.”
Still, he is convinced that she is right in the mix with the right trip. “She likes speed, as long as we get it and have a nice trip, she should have a good chance.”
For full race entries, click here
Through Jordyn Bublitz for Harness Racing New Zealand
#Robinson #mark #Teaz #pair