James MacDonald with strong chances in WDC at Cambridge

By Jordyn Bublitz

As the World Driving Championship (WDC) heads to Cambridge Raceway tonight, anticipation is building. 

With five competitive heats on the programme, seasoned race caller Aaron White reckons there’s one driver who looks especially well-placed to make an impact.

"At first glance, James MacDonald looks like he’s got the best pick," White said. "He looks like he’s in for a very good night with the horses he’s got."

The Canadian, who won the WDC  in 2017, is currently on 41 points after five heats at Kaikoura, 13 behind leader Gary Hall junior from Australia. New Zealand's representative Blair Orange is ninth on 22 points. 

MacDonald’s night kicks off in Heat 6 (6.04pm) with Captain’s Secret, trained by Steve and Amanda Telfer. The consistent pacer has been racing solidly in strong company and draws well enough to be a factor.

In Heat 7 (6.40pm), MacDonald will steer Trifolium, a trotter from the local stable of Andrew and Lyn Neal, before engaging his third drive of the night, Mick Konstantin (7.14pm).

"As for his best for the night I’d probably go with Mick Konstantin from barrier one," he said. "He’s a good, tough horse. Cambridge might not be his ideal track, but from that draw — and with James on — that looks his best drive."

MacDonald will then partner Sans Au Revoir in Heat 9 (7.40pm), another trotter with a strong finish who should appreciate a good run in transit, before wrapping up his evening with Commander Lincoln in Heat 10 (8.16pm).

White says the overall line-up gives MacDonald plenty of opportunities to accumulate points and keep himself right in the mix for the WDC title.

"If you’re looking for a driver to follow tonight, I’d be on the Maple Leaf," 

While White was quick to back the Canadian, he also acknowledged the wider field and the strength of competition across the championship.

"My favourite driver, of course, has to be our kiwi Blair," he said. "But Gary Hall Junior’s been flying the Australian flag high. He’s not just driving the favourites — he’s putting the roughies in the right places and getting results, which is what you like to see."