TAB Trot Rods hits top gear

The TAB Trot Rods series continues to go from strength-to-strength with record-breaking wagering throughout the 2021 edition.

Having quickly established its position on the Queensland harness racing calendar, turnover on last week’s Final grew by $1.5 million (+107%), representing a 30% uplift on Wednesday meetings at Redcliffe throughout 2021.

Across the series, Trot Rods heats averaged $269,000 per race, with heat seven hitting a high of $346,000, making it the highest turnover Wednesday race on the Peninsula for the year.

While ‘With The Band’ claimed the inaugural 947-metre series in 64.8, no less than six horses ran inside that time, including this year’s winner, Adam Crocker, who took a full second off the clock.

The blistering time ensured the owners of Adam Crocker claimed a $10,000 bonus for the quickest lap throughout the promotion, while the winning trainer, Chantal Turpin, also picked up an Otto Tuza two-horse angled and fully enclosed horse float valued at over $21,000.

Prior to winning his Trot Rods heat, Adam Crocker was successful in the Group 2 APG Gold 4YO Consolation Final and remains unbeaten this campaign as he heads toward the TAB Queensland Constellations.

In total, nominations grew to 250 from 139 during its inaugural year, representing an 80% uplift.

“The popularity of the TAB Trot Rods series is extremely pleasing,” Racing Queensland EGM Operations Adam Wallish said.

“With record-breaking turnover and nominations, we know it’s being well received by punters and participants alike.

“On average, Trot Rods heats perform 17% above Wednesday races at Redcliffe, highlighting their appeal to both traditional and non-traditional harness enthusiasts.

“While this year’s edition featured some quality horses, including Adam Crocker, which will be a serious contender during the up-coming TAB Queensland Constellations.”

Having steered Adam Crocker to victory, Pete McMullen drove the most winners during this year’s series with five, while Nathan Dawson charged late with four of his own.

Peter Greig was the leading trainer throughout the series with three winners.

Click here for a full re-cap of this year's TAB Trot Rods series.