Jacob Dunn to have first drive today

6 February 2025 , Punters Info

By Mike Love

The Dunn family are a household name when it comes to harness racing in Aotearoa New Zealand.

With the long term success of trainer Robert Dunn, and in recent years with training partner Jenna, along with John Dunn and of course Dexter Dunn, the family has achieved at the highest levels of success in the industry.

Today a new member of the family will begin their journey in this industry when Jacob Dunn (pictured above, far left), son of John and Jenna, has his first race day drive at today’s Amberley meeting held at Rangiora Raceway.

“I’m a wee bit nervous. But I’m quite excited to get out there and get driving.”

Dunn (20) will take the reins in Race 6, the Glenn Scott Memorial Handicap Pace over 2600m behind the Mark Smolenski-rained Sophia Bromac.

“She’s in great form at the moment. Hopefully we can keep that up. I’ll just be looking to step early and try to find a spot handy and be there at the finish.”

“Dad’s (John) given me plenty of advice, and so has grandad, telling me not to panic and to just keep calm.”

Sophia Bromac will start from the outside of the front line, while her main rivals are off 15 metres including race favourite Buckskin.

“Buckskin will be tough dropping back from country cup level races.”

Dunn did dabble in some plumbing before returning to the horses and getting into the position he is today.

“Originally when I left school I did plumbing, which I did for a couple of years, but then the horses took over and I found my love for them again. So now I just work full time at the beach with mum (Jenna) and grandad (Robert).”

“I’ll be really looking to get as many drives as I can and hopefully drive my first winner soon.”

Dunn will reunite with Sophia Bromac at Methven this Sunday.

Race 8 today is the $25,000 Rangiora Equine Services Amberley Cup over the 2600m from a standing start. Dunn suggested Who’s Delight could be one to follow in that race.

“Off the handicap, but his last start was really good - he had to do a lot of chasing and was still making ground at the finish.”

The Dunns also line up Double Time in the event, among six other strong chances throughout the card.

Race one gets underway at 12:05pm.