900 for Ottley at Oamaru

By Courtney Buchanan

Samantha Ottley reached a milestone at Oamaru on Wednesday recording her 900th driving success.

Ottley achieved the milestone in the opening race of the meeting when driving A Bettors Legacy to victory for trainer Mark Jones.

“I was more hopeful than confident,” Ottley said.

Asked if there were any moments of doubt, Ottley said the biggest concern came early.

“Probably just at the start of the race, as he hadn’t been very good in the warm up practice stands I gave him.”

A Bettors Legacy did break at the start but Ottley was able to quickly get the horse settled and work into the race at the right time to secure the victory.

The win adds to what has already been a standout career for Ottley who made history last season when becoming the first female driver to record 100 wins in a season.

This season she is currently sitting on 85 wins and has until December 31 to reach the 100 mark again.

Setting goals is something Ottley does at the start of each season.

“Every year I try to better the previous season’s tallies and get drives in the big races,” she said.

Her next major target is already clear.

“The next big one would be getting to 1000 winners.”

Reflecting on her career highlights, Ottley said winning The Jewels with Rocker Band remains her biggest win.

“The Jewels were such exciting races,” she said.

However, some victories hold a deeper personal meaning.

“My favourite win would be my very first race drive, which was a winner for Mum,” Ottley said.

“Winning the Geraldine Cup for Colin and Julie DeFilippi has always been a special one as well.”

Given her achievements it is no surprise Ottley has become a role model for young people coming through the sport.

“I think it’s just so cool hearing that young people look up to me and want to achieve the same things,” she said.

“I love being able to help young ones if I can.”