By Trent Orwin
Champion reinsman Gary Hall Jnr is looking forward to the “privilege” of representing Australia at his first World Driving Championship (WDC) around New Zealand this November.
The Western Australian star boasts more than 4,100 career winners, including 70 at Group 1 level. His most famous partnership was with Im Themightyquinn, a three-time Inter Dominion winner trained by his father, Gary Hall Snr.
Hall Jnr is keen to land further success at the WDC to be held at Kaikoura, Winton, Cambridge and Addington from November 2 to 11.
“It’s a pretty big privilege. The (WDC) only comes around every couple of years, and it’s pretty hard to get the gig,” Hall Jnr said.
“I think it’s a way of recognising that I’ve had a pretty good career. Hopefully I can get over there and do Australia proud.”
The series will bring together 10 of the world’s leading drivers, ensuring fierce competition. Hall Jnr has already identified New Zealand’s superstar Blair Orange as his toughest rival, particularly on home soil.
“I have to say Blair Orange because it’s in New Zealand – that gives him a big advantage,” Hall Jnr said.
“If it was held in WA, I would feel like I would be the hardest to beat.
“His general knowledge of all the local horses and their form give him a big advantage, as well as being a good driver who is aggressive when he needs to be, and more Kiwi-style when he has to be.”
Hall Jnr acknowledged that previous driving experience in New Zealand makes him more confident.
“I’ve driven in New Zealand a fair bit, so it makes me feel a bit more comfortable,” Hall Jnr said.
“I would feel like a fish out of water if it was somewhere like Italy or France.”
Hall Jnr will seek some assistance with his form duties throughout the series.
“Our agent, Peter Blanchard, will be pretty helpful,” Hall Jnr said.
“(Peter) and his son Vaughan, they know the form inside out.”
Off the track, Hall Jnr is looking forward to connecting with fellow competitors from across the globe.
Bookmakers have installed Orange as the favourite ahead of Hall Jnr. Past WDC winners James MacDonald of Canada and Pierre Vercruysse of France also feature prominently in the market.
