Harrison Orange enjoying the ID buzz in Queensland

By Adam Hamilton 

Harrison Orange is loving life.

The Kiwi young gun is in Brisbane doing some driving, spending time in one of the top stables and preparing to watch one of harness racing’s great modern clashes.

It’s all possible as the prize for winning the Revell Douglas Memorial series earlier in the year. First held in 2022, the series is held in memory of the late Revell Douglas who tragically drowned at Karioitahi Beach in 2021.  The trip was paid for by series sponsor Hygain. 

After arriving on Saturday night he has already had drives at Albion Park and Redcliffe and will be back in action again today (Thursday).

“The support has been great. I’m spending time at Pete (McMullen) and Chantal Turpin’s place and Tommy Callaghan, who works for them, has been awesome, too.

“He’s been kind enough to steer a few of his regular drives my way.

“It’s just the best time to be here. There’s such a buzz around with the Inter Dominion final on the weekend.”

Like everyone, Orange can’t wait for Leap To Fame to clash with wonder mare Captains Mistress in Saturday night’s $1 million Inter Dominion pacing final (2680m).

“It’ll be amazing to be trackside and watch that in person. What a race it’s going to be,” he said.

So, who does he think will win?

“I’m with Larry. I think Leap To Fame will be too good,” he said.

Orange will stay in Brisbane until early next week and has decided to make the most of trip across the ditch and extend the stay.

Next stop is another powerhouse stable, Luke McCarthy’s place at Cobbitty, not far from, Menangle.

“That’s not part of the prize, but while I’m here, I’ll make most of it. I can’t wait to get down to Luke’s place. I’m going to have two weeks there,” Orange said.

Knowing how supportive McCarthy is of young talent, he’s sure to help Orange get some driving opportunities in NSW as well.